Preschool Lead Teacher

The Bellwether School is seeking an exceptional Preschool Teacher to join our vibrant, progressive learning community.

At Bellwether, we believe learning is rooted in relationships. We offer a holistic, child-centered, play-based approach where each child is deeply seen, thoughtfully challenged, and meaningfully engaged through emergent curriculum. Our classrooms are joyful, intentional spaces where curiosity leads the way and educators act as guides, collaborators, and co-learners.

We are looking for a reflective, experienced educator who thrives in a dynamic environment and is excited to be part of a warm, collaborative school community.

The Ideal Candidate

You are:

• Passionate about play-based, emergent curriculum
• Grounded in relationship-centered teaching
• Skilled at creating inclusive, engaging classroom environments
• Reflective and committed to ongoing professional growth
• Energized by collaboration and community
   

Qualifications

• Vermont Educator Licensure (or eligibility for licensure)
• 2–3 years of experience managing a preschool classroom
• Experience designing and implementing curriculum aligned with Vermont Early Learning Standards (VELS)
• Experience using Teaching Strategies GOLD (TSG) to document and assess student growth
• Strong classroom management and communication skills
• First Aid and CPR Certification
• Completion of Vermont Orientation Training
   

Responsibilities

• Design and facilitate meaningful, emergent, play-based curriculum
• Foster a nurturing, relationship-driven classroom culture
• Observe, document, and assess student development using TSG
• Partner with families through strong communication and collaboration
• Work closely with colleagues to support school-wide initiatives and shared vision
• Maintain a safe, organized, and engaging learning environment

Why Bellwether?

At The Bellwether School, educators are valued as professionals and collaborators. We invest in personal and professional growth, cultivate a culture of reflection, and believe that strong adult relationships create the conditions for powerful learning.

If you are excited to teach in a school where children are known, learning is joyful, and community matters deeply, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references to our Director Laura Hoopes: laura.hoopes@bellwetherschool.org.

Overview
Join our vibrant early childhood education team as a Preschool Lead Teacher, where you will play a pivotal role in nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. This dynamic position offers the opportunity to lead engaging classroom activities, develop innovative curricula, and support the holistic development of preschool children. As a key leader in our educational community, you will inspire curiosity, promote social-emotional growth, and create a safe, stimulating environment that encourages exploration and discovery. Your passion for early childhood education and commitment to child welfare will help shape the foundational experiences that set children on a path to success.

Duties

• Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards, including literacy education, math, physical education, and Montessori methods
• Lead classroom activities that promote childhood development, social skills, behavior management, and early intervention strategies
• Foster an inclusive environment supporting children with special education needs and those requiring additional support through tailored teaching approaches
• Manage classroom routines to ensure safety, engagement, and positive behavior among preschoolers and toddlers
• Collaborate with parents and guardians to communicate progress, address concerns, and support child welfare initiatives
• Oversee classroom organization, materials preparation, and maintenance to ensure a clean, safe, and stimulating learning space
• Conduct assessments using standardized testing tools to monitor developmental milestones and inform instructional strategies
• Support team members through mentorship in classroom management techniques, lesson planning, and childcare best practices

Experience

• Prior experience working with children in preschool or daycare settings is essential; Montessori or private school experience is preferred
• Demonstrated expertise in curriculum development across early childhood subjects such as literacy education, math, physical education, and toddler care
• Strong background in childhood development principles, behavior management techniques, and early intervention strategies
• Proven ability to manage classrooms effectively while fostering a nurturing environment for young learners
• Experience working with children with special needs or in inclusive classrooms is highly desirable
• Excellent communication skills for collaborating with families, staff members, and community partners
• Familiarity with standardized testing procedures and assessment tools used in early childhood education

Embark on a rewarding career where your dedication transforms young lives! We are committed to supporting your professional growth through ongoing training opportunities in early childhood education practices such as Montessori methods and literacy instruction. Join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children while advancing your expertise in preschool teaching!