Southern Payroll Solutions·Okaloosa County, Florida
The Lead Teacher is responsible for designing and implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans to support children's cognitive and social growth. They must maintain a safe classroom environment and foster professional partnerships with families and staff.
Lead Teacher – Early Childhood Education Are you passionate about shaping young minds and creating meaningful early learning experiences? We’re seeking a dedicated Lead Teacher to join our team and help support the growth and development of young learners in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. As a Lead Teacher, you will guide classroom instruction, design developmentally appropriate learning experiences, and foster strong partnerships with families and staff. This role is ideal for an educator who is organized, collaborative, and committed to quality early childhood education.
Key Responsibilities Create and implement weekly lesson plans that support children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
Lead daily classroom activities including art, music, storytelling, and structured play to promote learning across all domains.
Maintain a clean, safe, and stimulating classroom environment while ensuring compliance with licensing and safety standards.
Conduct ongoing observations, assessments, and daily documentation to track developmental progress.
Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding children’s daily experiences and milestones.
Model best practices and support the development of assistant teachers through guidance and constructive feedback.
Maintain classroom organization, bulletin boards, and age-appropriate learning materials.
Uphold required child-to-staff ratios and participate in regular facility and classroom safety checks.
High school diploma or equivalent required; additional early childhood credentials preferred.
At least 1 year of experience working in early childhood education.
Experience working with the age group you will lead (Infants/Ones, Twos, or Preschool).
Prior experience leading a classroom independently.
Current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.
Completion of state-required early childhood training courses (including 40-hour childcare training, VPK Emergent Literacy, and applicable preservice coursework).
Ability to meet state background screening requirements.
Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
Ability to lift up to 30 lbs, sit on the floor with children, and work on your feet for extended periods.
Availability during operating hours (Monday–Friday), with occasional events or trainings outside of regular hours.
Full-time employees may be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, which can include: Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid time off and paid holidays
FREE Childcare: Training reimbursement and professional development opportunities
Employee referral incentives
Teacher appreciation programs
Classroom décor allowances
Career development support and TEACH program sponsorships
Ready to grow with us? Apply today to join our team of passionate educators dedicated to building brighter futures!
Grow With Us Learning Academy is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value diversity and strive to maintain a respectful and inclusive work environment for everyone.
Candidates must have a high school diploma, at least one year of early childhood education experience, and current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification. Completion of state-required childcare training and the ability to pass background screenings are also required.
Market context
In Florida, lead teacher openings are typically driven by ongoing staffing needs in schools and early learning settings, especially for candidates who can manage classrooms and plan instruction. These roles are competitive because employers look for classroom leadership experience, state education compliance, and a clear background-screening record. Review the full posting carefully and compare your credentials to the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here, which condense the original job description to save research time before you apply.
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