Preschool Lead Teacher

• Company Overview We are hiring a Early Childhood Educator (Preschool Lead Teacher) to join our team of dedicated educators.
• If you’re passionate about early childhood development and have experience in childcare, daycare, or preschool education, we’d love to meet you.
• At The Willow School, we believe childhood should be protected, honored, and filled with wonder.
• We are a Reggio-inspired early childhood community seeking educators who view children as capable, curious, and deserving of meaningful relationships and thoughtfully prepared environments.
• We are looking for collaborative, reflective, and compassionate educators who are passionate about early childhood education and committed to creating spaces where children, families, and teachers feel deeply connected and supported.
• This is not a traditional childcare environment.
• Our classrooms are rooted in relationship-based teaching, inquiry, creativity, outdoor learning, and the belief that the environment acts as the third teacher.
• We value educators who are curious alongside children, intentional in their work, and excited to be part of a collaborative school culture.
• Our educators are seen as professionals, co-constructors of learning, and important contributors to our school community.
• Compensation & Benefits: Competitive compensation based on level of education and experience.
• Hourly Pay Rate: $16.00 - $20.80 On demand pay with UKG Wallet 50% childcare tuition discount 401(k) with employer match Comprehensive benefit package for all full-time employees, including: Paid time off that increases with seniority Paid holidays Medical, dental, vision options available Additional life, disability, and retirement plans Educational and professional development Tuition reimbursement Company-paid life insurance Pet insurance Paid CDA

Job Description

What You’ll Do Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment where every child is treated with dignity, respect, and care. Build positive, professional relationships with children and families, including daily greetings and ongoing communication. Recognize and respond to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including implementing IEPs and behavioral support plans as required. Plan, implement, and document developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence educational philosophy and Signature Programs. Use Cadence-required systems and communication tools to communicate professionally with families, coworkers, and leadership. Maintain a safe and well‑supervised classroom, following the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual at all times. Accurately document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors in accordance with company policy and licensing requirements. Follow all Cadence Education policies, procedures, and standards outlined in the Employee Handbook. Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside of regularly scheduled work hours. What We’re Looking For Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Demonstrated ability to follow all safety procedures, including Name‑to‑Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle‑feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices. Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English. Education Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred. Experience Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center. A minimum of 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials. Credentials & Licensing Must meet all Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications for Lead Teachers, which may include: High school diploma or GED plus required experience or College coursework in early childhood education or CDA, CCP, EEC or NAC credential Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings. CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are met. Scheduling Requirements (Please Review Carefully) Flexibility is essential. Schedules may change based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs. Work schedules may vary and are not guaranteed to be eight-hour shifts. Daily end times may vary and cannot be guaranteed. #CR