Precious Cargo Preschool & Childcare·Salem, Oregon
The Lead Preschool Teacher is responsible for delivering a high-quality, developmentally appropriate early childhood education program that supports the social, emotional, and academic growth of students. They must also maintain accurate records, conduct assessments, and foster strong relationships with families to ensure program compliance and student success.
Bonus based on performance Company parties Employee discounts Health insurance Opportunity for advancement Paid time off Training & development
The Lead Preschool Teacher is responsible for delivering a high-quality, developmentally appropriate early childhood education program. This role involves planning and implementing engaging, culturally responsive learning experiences that support the social, emotional, and academic growth of all students.
The Lead Teacher will cultivate a welcoming, inclusive classroom environment, fostering curiosity and critical thinking. They will establish strong relationships with families, providing regular updates on student progress and encouraging family involvement in the educational process.
Collaboration with team members, specialists, and support staff is essential to meet program goals and monitor student development. The Lead Teacher will maintain accurate records, assess student progress, and continually enhance program quality through professional growth and reflective practice.
This position requires leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to creating a nurturing environment where every child can succeed.
1. Educational Programming and Curriculum Implementation
Plan and deliver engaging lessons with ambitious instruction that are developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and culturally responsive.
Incorporate both adult-directed and child-initiated activities to support learning and development.
Use TSGold (Teaching Strategies Gold) for observations and assessments, meeting quarterly deadlines as required by preschool promise.
Ensure daily observations are entered into TSGold without exception. This is a mandatory and non-negotiable expectation of the position.
Plan environments that encourage hands-on learning and inquiry-based instruction.
Develop and implement activities that address all developmental domains, including cognitive, social-emotional, language, literacy, and physical development.
Design learning experiences that incorporate diversity, cultural relevance, and inclusivity to meet the needs of all students.
Incorporate individualized learning plans to address the unique strengths and challenges of each student, including children with disabilities and dual language learners.
Display and maintain an updated interactive classroom schedule that balances structured and unstructured activities, indoor and outdoor play, and rest periods.
2. Classroom Environment and Behavior Management
Demonstrate competence and understanding of CLASS & ECERS evaluations 1-2 times per year to assess classroom climate, teacher-student interactions, and overall learning environment. Use feedback from these observations to refine instructional practices and improve student engagement.
Develop routines, transitions, and behavioral expectations to promote a safe, respectful, and engaging environment.
Reinforce positive behaviors, model emotional regulation, and implement proactive strategies to address challenging behaviors.
Offer accommodations and individualized support for Dual Language Learners (DLLs) and children with special needs.
Ensure classrooms are organized, clean, and stocked with developmentally appropriate materials.
Demonstrate appropriate language and interactions to support social-emotional development.
Develop and communicate clear expectations for behavior and classroom rules, using visuals and cues to support understanding.
Apply strategies that focus on building relationships, conflict resolution, and promoting cooperation.
3. Developmental Screening and Assessments
Perform developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment to identify concerns.
Complete formative assessments at least three times per year and use data to plan individualized and group activities.
Update developmental portfolios regularly with work samples, observations, and documentation.
Use assessment results to track progress and guide instruction effectively.
Present assessment data to families during three required Parent-Teacher Conferences annually.
Collect and organize anecdotal notes, photos, and examples of student work to document progress and inform planning.
Work with specialists and service providers to address developmental concerns, ensuring proper interventions and supports are implemented.
4. Family Engagement and Communication
Establish relationships with families through consistent, two-way communication.
Hold orientation sessions for new families prior to beginning preschool.
Provide daily outreach to parents of absent children to ensure attendance accountability.
Plan and implement activities that involve parents in the learning process, including family nights and volunteer opportunities.
Respect family input and cultural practices, incorporating them into classroom activities when appropriate.
Deliver regular updates on classroom activities, student progress, and areas for improvement through newsletters, emails, and phone calls.
5. Compliance with Preschool Promise Requirements
Follow PSP-specific requirements without deviation, ensuring all curriculum-related tasks, assessments, and observations are completed.
Maintain a positive learning climate and participate in CLASS observations as required.
Work with instructional leaders and specialists to meet PSP standards and enhance program quality.
Keep accurate attendance records. Submit monthly attendance reports by the 3rd of each month and upload data into Discord for management review.
Work closely with Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) providers and integrate IFSP goals into lessons as needed.
Record all family interactions regarding attendance, assessments, and conferences.
Submit compliance paperwork and documentation on time to maintain program accountability.
6. Professional Development and Continuous Improvement
Complete 20 hours of verifiable professional development annually, including required workshops and coaching.
Use data to create and execute Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plans.
Engage in classroom instructional evaluations and observations, including unannounced site visits.
Work with peers, coaches, and management to review and improve teaching practices.
Participate in staff meetings, workshops, and coaching sessions to stay updated on best practices and compliance requirements.
Use feedback from observations and evaluations to refine teaching strategies and classroom practices.
Candidates must demonstrate a strong foundation in early childhood education, safety compliance, and child development practices. Ideal applicants possess the necessary certifications, training, and experience to create a nurturing and structured learning environment.
Required: o Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related teaching field
o Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
o Completion of Oregon Step Registry training and ORO enrollment at a step 8 or higher.
o CPR and First Aid Certification.
o Food Handler’s Card.
o Proven experience as a lead teacher or similar role.
o Strong understanding of developmentally appropriate practices and curriculum planning.
o Excellent communication and organizational skills.
o Ability to work collaboratively as a team member.
o Experience with Creative Curriculum and TSGold preferred.
o 2+ years of experience in an early childhood setting, demonstrating expertise in managing childcare programs and fostering child development.
o Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Consistently delivers high-quality education aligned with standards.
Supports children in reaching milestones and promotes school readiness.
Ensures parents feel confident and satisfied with their child’s care.
Compliance: Maintains adherence to all DELC regulations and licensing require
Job Type: Full-time
Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Tuition reimbursement Work Location: In person
Market context
In Oregon, preschool lead teacher openings often reflect steady demand for licensed early childhood educators who can support classroom routines and child development. These roles are competitive because employers typically look for state Lead Teacher licensing, a high school diploma or equivalent, and preferred early childhood education and classroom experience. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your licensing status and background clearance readiness before applying.