Shaded band: the middle 50% of posted classroom teacher roles in Providence, Rhode Island salarys. This role sits in the 21st percentile.
About the role
Pay for this role is about 8% below the Providence, Rhode Island median for classroom teacher roles.
The Lead Teacher will plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum while providing instructional support and classroom coverage across multiple sites. They are also responsible for mentoring classroom staff, conducting family conferences, and maintaining detailed records of student development.
🍎 we're hiring
Lead teachers!
Location
We have locations in
Providence,
RI,
Pawtucket,
RI and
Central
Falls,
RI
Reports To:
Child
Development
Supervisor
Employment
Type: Full-Time
Salary Range
$46,206.00-$60,000/yr
Are you passionate about shaping young minds and building a foundation for lifelong learning? Do you thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment? At Children’s Friend, we are seeking a flexible and enthusiastic float teacher to provide classroom coverage and instructional support across multiple classrooms and sites.
🌟 what you'll do
Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum based on best practices
Ensure compliance with DCYF and Head Start Education Performance Standards
Maintain records on children’s emotional, physical, social, and intellectual development
Collaborate closely with staff and consultants to support the unique needs of each child
Conduct family conferences and home visits to support family engagement
Supervise and mentor classroom staff, providing guidance and reflective support
Act as a mentor to new Lead Teachers, modeling best practices in early childhood education
As a float teacher, you will play a key role in maintaining consistency in learning while covering for teacher absences, supporting classroom routines, and assisting with instructional delivery throughout the schools.
📚 what you bring
Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development (Related degrees may be considered)
RIDE Certification preferred
Minimum of 30 hours of ongoing annual training (including RIELDS 2)
Ability to organize and implement engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trusting relationships with diverse families
Requirements
Candidates must hold at least an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field and possess strong interpersonal skills. The role requires the ability to travel between sites, lift up to 40 lbs, and maintain relevant certifications such as CPR and First Aid.
associate degree
bachelor degree
postgraduate degree
Mentoring
CPR
Interpersonal skills
First aid
Instructional delivery
Curriculum planning
Child development
Family engagement
Classroom management
Early childhood education
Instructional support
Reflective support
Benefits
Paid holidays
Life insurance
Medical coverage
Disability insurance
Education assistance
Vision coverage
Dental coverage
Student loan repayment assistance
403(b) plan
Vacation benefits
Flex spending accounts
Training and professional development
Posting details
Employment type
Full Time
Work arrangement
On Site
Experience
2-5 yrs
Salary
$46,206 - $60,000/yr
Locations
Providence, Rhode Island; Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Central Falls, Rhode Island
Posted
Apr 10, 2026
Application
Employer website
Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs., travel between sites, and meet medical/immunization requirements
CPR and First Aid certified (or willing to obtain)
Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and auto insurance for mileage reimbursement as this position will require travel to our different sites.
This is a full-time position that provides daily classroom coverage as assigned. Assignments may include short-term coverage, co-teaching, intervention support, or helping during peak instructional periods.
🤝 why children’s friend?
We foster a culture of diversity, inclusion, and respect, and we believe in empowering our staff with the tools and support they need to succeed. As a Lead Teacher, you’ll be part of a collaborative, supportive environment where your voice and contributions truly matter.
🛡️ equal opportunity employer
We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you require accommodation during the application process, please contact us at talent@cfsri.org.
Children’s Friend offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes the following:
Competitive salaries with starting rates at a minimum of $46,206.00/yr.
Medical Dental and Vision coverage
Employer contributions to the 403(b) plan
Employer-paid Life and Disability insurance
Flex Spending Accounts
12 Holidays
Competitive Vacation Benefits
Training and Professional Development
Education Assistance
Student Loan Repayment Assistance
Market context
Rhode Island early childhood teaching demand
Early childhood teachers in Rhode Island are often sought for center-based and multi-site programs that need staff who can support classroom routines, family communication, and compliance with safety standards. This role is competitive because it combines an Associate’s degree requirement, travel between sites, physical duties, and current CPR/First Aid credentials, while offering paid holidays, medical coverage, disability insurance, life insurance, and education assistance. Before applying, confirm your certifications are current and review the AI-summarized job requirements and benefits here to save time against the original posting.
