Lead Toddler 1 Teacher

About the position

The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating and implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters growth in children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. This position requires leadership in classroom management, maintaining compliance with Georgia Bright from the Start (BFTS) and DECAL licensing standards, and creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. The Lead Teacher serves as the primary educator in their assigned classroom, working closely with Assistant Teachers to deliver high-quality early childhood education aligned with BSKA's mission to educate, empower, and inspire children. This role requires strong communication with families, collaboration with center leadership, and commitment to continuous professional development. This is a performance-driven position with clear expectations for classroom quality, child development outcomes, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, leadership, and professionalism while contributing to BSKA's reputation as a Quality Rated early learning provider. Compensation$17- $20 Key Responsibilities A. Curriculum & Instruction Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with Creative Curriculum and Georgia Early Learning and Development Standards (GELDS) Create engaging learning experiences that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development Incorporate STEAM activities, Montessori-inspired principles, and play-based learning into daily routines Differentiate instruction to meet individual learning needs and developmental levels Maintain organized learning centers and age-appropriate classroom materials Integrate bilingual learning opportunities (English/Spanish) when applicable B. Classroom Management & Child Safety Supervise children at all times, maintaining appropriate staff-to-child ratios as required by BFTS licensing Implement positive behavior guidance strategies and establish clear classroom expectations Create a safe, clean, and organized learning environment that meets health and safety standards Conduct daily health checks and maintain accurate documentation of injuries, incidents, and behaviors Follow emergency procedures and participate in monthly safety drills Report suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with Georgia mandatory reporter requirements C. Family Communication & Engagement Communicate daily with families through the Playground app (photos, updates, meal logs, attendance) Conduct parent-teacher conferences to discuss child development and progress Respond promptly and professionally to parent questions and concerns Build strong, collaborative relationships with families to support children's learning at home Share developmental milestones, learning activities, and classroom updates regularly D. Child Assessment & Documentation Conduct ongoing developmental observations and assessments using approved tools Maintain accurate and up-to-date child portfolios documenting growth and learning Track attendance, meal participation, and daily activities in Playground Identify children who may need additional support and collaborate with center leadership and families Complete required DECAL documentation and maintain compliance with record-keeping standards E. Team Leadership & Collaboration Supervise and mentor Assistant Teachers and provide constructive feedback Delegate classroom responsibilities and ensure Assistant Teachers are actively engaged in teaching Attend staff meetings, professional development training, and center events Collaborate with Center Director and Assistant Director on classroom operations and improvements Model professionalism, punctuality, and positive interactions with children, families, and staff F. Compliance & Administrative Duties Ensure classroom is in compliance with BFTS and DECAL licensing regulations at all times Maintain current CPR/First Aid certification and complete required annual training hours Follow food program guidelines (CACFP) for meal service and documentation Complete timesheets accurately and submit by designated deadlines Participate in internal inspections and address any identified deficiencies promptly Skills & Experience Education & Credentials High school diploma or GED (required) CDA (Child Development Associate) credential or higher education in Early Childhood Education (preferred) Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire) Must meet Georgia Bright from the Start staff qualification requirements Pass comprehensive background check and fingerprinting Professional Experience Minimum 2 years of experience working with young children in a childcare or educational setting Demonstrated knowledge of child development principles and age-appropriate practices Experience with Creative Curriculum, GELDS, or similar early learning frameworks (preferred) Previous lead teacher or supervisory experience in a licensed childcare center (preferred) Technical & Communication Skills Proficiency with technology including smartphones, tablets, and childcare management apps (Playground) Strong written and verbal communication skills for parent interaction and documentation Bilingual in English and Spanish (preferred but not required) Ability to write lesson plans, developmental reports, and incident documentation Personal Qualities & Soft Skills Genuine passion for early childhood education and child development Patient, nurturing, and responsive to children's needs Strong organizational and time management skills Collaborative team player with leadership qualities Professional demeanor and commitment to high ethical standards Creative, flexible, and adaptable to changing classroom needs Reliable, punctual, and committed to consistent attendance Reporting Structure & Accountability Reports to: Center Director and/or Assistant Director Supervises: Assistant Teachers and classroom volunteers Collaborates with: Other Lead Teachers and teaching staff Administrative team and kitchen staff Next Gen ABA Therapy staff (for children receiving services) if applicable Families and community partners Expectations & Working Conditions Schedule Full-time schedule: Monday–Friday during center operating hours Shifts may vary based on center needs (typical range: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM) Flexibility to attend occasional evening events or staff meetings Location Assigned to one of BSKA's two locations: Midtown Atlanta: 635 Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 Buford: 1980 Buford Hwy NE, Buford, GA 30518 Professional Requirements Complete mandatory annual training hours as required by BFTS Maintain current knowledge of early childhood best practices and Georgia regulations Uphold professional ethics and confidentiality in all interactions Support organizational culture focused on quality, family partnership, and continuous improvement Position Summary This role is ideal for a passionate early childhood educator who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment and is committed to providing exceptional care and education that prepares children for lifelong success. The Lead Teacher plays a vital role in BSKA's mission to educate, empower, and inspire young learners while building strong partnerships with families and maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.

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