Mount Vernon School·Sandy Springs, Georgia
The PreK3 Lead Teacher is responsible for designing and implementing an inquiry-based, play-based curriculum that supports the academic and social-emotional growth of students. They must also maintain a safe classroom environment, communicate with families, and collaborate with the preschool team to meet individual student needs.
Description Established in 1972, Mount Vernon School serves over 1,250 students in Preschool through Grade 12 on our 40-acre Atlanta campus. Grounded in Christian values, Mount Vernon prepares all students to be college-ready, globally competitive, and engaged citizen leaders. Mount Vernon School anchors the Mount Vernon Organization as a destination of inquiry, innovation, and impact. Through MVSO, the online division of our Upper School, and MV Ventures, our research and educational consultancy, our organization is living its mission to design a better world by providing unique and differentiated value for all community members now and into the future.
The Team Our Preschool team is committed to maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios while adhering to the highest standards, including NAEYC Accreditation. We believe children learn best in a play-based, inquiry-driven environment tailored to meet their individual needs. Additionally, we prioritize professional growth by offering ongoing training, conferences, and other development opportunities to support our educators.
The Role The Mount Vernon School is seeking a passionate and caring full-time PreK3 Lead Teacher. This full-time, 10-month, exempt position follows the School’s academic calendar and schedule. The Preschool Teacher is responsible for designing, implementing, and assessing curriculum that promotes a hands-on, play-based approach to learning.
As a Preschool Teacher, you will nurture each child’s curiosity, build foundational academic knowledge, and support social-emotional growth. Through inquiry-based practices, you will foster creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning in every child. Strong candidates will demonstrate a commitment to collaboration, cultural competency, and innovative teaching practices.
Implement developmentally appropriate, inquiry-based learning experiences Provide care and support for students, focusing on their individual social, emotional, and academic needs Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming classroom environment as outlined by NAEYC guidelines Support the preparation of materials and activities that align with curriculum goals Plan, collect, and analyze ongoing anecdotal notes and assessment data Communicate effectively with families regarding general classroom updates and student activities in a timely manner Conduct parent-teacher conferences Supervise students during transitions and activities such as, lunch, recess, carpool and other daily activities Participate in professional development opportunities as provided by the School Perform additional responsibilities such as carpool duty, classroom cleanup, and team meetings Collaborate with the Director of Preschool regarding student and family needs Core Competencies Ability to cultivate respectful and affirming environments Capacity to work flexibly, independently, and collaboratively in a fast-paced and ambitious environment Culturally proficient & equity literate Creating predictable, consistent, and harmonious classrooms Design enriched learning environments Facilitate learning through inquiry
Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent; an Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field is preferred. Experience working with young children in a classroom, childcare, or similar setting. Familiarity with NAEYC standards and criteria is a plus. Strong organizational and communication skills. Work Environment Indoor/outdoor classroom environment Outdoor natural learning spaces Physical Demands Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. and engage in activities at the child’s level. Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office and classroom equipment. Sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to assist children. Seeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student activities. Hearing and speaking to exchange information. Reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally. This job description is intended to describe the basic elements of the job and should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. This job description does not constitute a contract. It may be modified or amended at any time as determined in the School’s discretion.
The faculty and staff of The Mount Vernon School believe the fair and equitable treatment of employees is critical to fulfilling its mission and purpose. It is the policy of The Mount Vernon School to conduct business and provide equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Start Date | August 2026
Market context
In Georgia, classroom teacher roles often draw steady interest because schools and child-focused programs need candidates who can meet licensing, safety, and classroom support requirements. This role is competitive for applicants who can show reliability, comfort with active supervision, and readiness to pass background checks; one year of child care experience is preferred, but not always required. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your fit for the physical duties and prepare examples of working with children.