Pre-K Lead Teacher

Head Pre-K Teacher

Tiny Steps Learning Center is a warm, community-focused early childhood education center dedicated to nurturing children and supporting families through high-quality care and learning. Guided by Grow NJ Kids quality standards, our program emphasizes hands-on exploration, social-emotional development, and building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. At Tiny Steps, our educators are more than teachers. They are leaders, role models, and partners in each child's development. We are committed to creating a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive environment where children thrive and teachers have the resources, encouragement, and professional growth opportunities they need to succeed.

Position Summary

The Head Pre-K Teacher is responsible for leading a high-quality, developmentally appropriate preschool classroom for children ages 3 to 5. This role includes planning and implementing engaging instruction, supervising classroom staff, maintaining a safe and nurturing environment, and partnering with families to support each child's growth and school readiness. The ideal candidate is a strong classroom leader who is passionate about early childhood education, committed to excellence, and able to create a positive learning environment where children feel supported, challenged, and inspired.

What You'll Do

Curriculum and Instruction

• Plan and implement engaging daily lessons aligned with the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards.
• Create a structured, inclusive, and stimulating classroom environment that supports children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Use developmentally appropriate teaching strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners, including children with special needs and English language learners.
• Incorporate play-based and project-based learning into daily classroom experiences.
• Promote school readiness through meaningful learning activities and strong classroom routines.

Classroom Leadership

• Serve as the lead educator and role model in the Pre-K classroom.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Assistant Teachers, paraprofessionals, and classroom aides.
• Maintain positive classroom management practices that encourage respect, cooperation, and confidence.
• Ensure the classroom remains in compliance with all applicable licensing, health, and educational regulations.

Child Development and Assessment

• Conduct ongoing observations, assessments, and developmental documentation using approved tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD or COR Advantage.
• Monitor children's progress and use assessment data to guide instruction.
• Share developmental progress with families and administrators in a clear, respectful, and professional manner.
• Develop individualized support plans as needed to help children reach their full potential.

Family and Community Engagement

• Build strong and respectful relationships with families.
• Maintain open communication with parents regarding progress, classroom activities, and developmental milestones.
• Lead parent-teacher conferences, family workshops, and engagement activities.
• Collaborate with community partners and support services when appropriate.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment.
• Follow all health and safety procedures in accordance with NJ DCF, DOH, CACFP, and center policies.
• Ensure accurate completion of attendance, incident reports, assessments, and required classroom documentation.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field required.
• New Jersey P-3 Certification is a plus.
• At least 2 years of experience as a Lead Teacher or Head Teacher in an early childhood setting.
• Strong knowledge of child development, curriculum planning, and New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, classroom management, and organizational skills.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Work Schedule and Physical Requirements

• Full-time exempt position.
• Monday through Friday schedule.
• Occasional evening availability for family events or professional development may be required.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds and actively engage with children indoors and outdoors.

Why Join Tiny Steps Learning Center

• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Opportunity to lead and make a lasting impact in children's lives.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Mission-driven center committed to quality early childhood education.
• Meaningful partnership with families and the community.

Qualified candidates who are passionate about early childhood education and ready to lead a Pre-K classroom are encouraged to apply.