Preschool Lead Teacher
Discovery Point Lutz is seeking a caring, energetic, and dependable Preschool Lead Teacher who is passionate about early childhood education and making a positive difference in the lives of young children.
The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing age-appropriate educational activities, maintaining a safe and nurturing classroom environment, and supporting the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of each child.
The ideal candidate is a strong classroom leader who takes initiative, works well with a team, communicates effectively with families, and creates an engaging learning environment where children feel valued and excited to learn.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesClassroom Leadership & Instruction- Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities.- Create a positive, structured, and welcoming classroom environment.- Promote children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.- Incorporate creative activities, hands-on learning, music, art, and literacy.- Establish consistent classroom routines and positive behavior guidance.- Adapt instruction to meet the individual needs and developmental levels of children.- Prepare children for kindergarten readiness when applicable.Child Supervision & Safety- Maintain active supervision of children at all times.- Ensure the classroom is clean, organized, and safe.- Follow all Florida childcare licensing requirements and center policies.- Maintain accurate attendance, incident, and classroom records.- Follow health, sanitation, and safety procedures.Parent & Family Communication- Establish positive, professional relationships with families.- Communicate regularly about children's progress, daily activities, and developmental milestones.- Address parent questions and concerns professionally.- Support family engagement and center events.Teamwork & Professional Responsibilities- Provide leadership and guidance to classroom assistants and support teachers.- Maintain a positive and collaborative working relationship with coworkers.- Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development.- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a positive attitude.- Take ownership of classroom responsibilities and maintain high teaching standards.Qualifications & Requirements- High school diploma or equivalent required.- DCF 45-hour training completed or willingness to complete within required timeframes.- Florida Child Care Staff Credential preferred.- Previous experience in a licensed childcare or preschool setting preferred.- Strong understanding of early childhood development.- Excellent communication and classroom management skills.- CPR and First Aid certification preferred.- Ability to meet Florida childcare background screening requirements.- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift as required for classroom responsibilities.The Ideal CandidateWe are looking for someone who:- Truly enjoys working with young children.- Is enthusiastic, patient, nurturing, and dependable.- Takes pride in creating an organized and engaging classroom.- Is creative and enjoys developing fun learning experiences.- Demonstrates initiative and takes responsibility.- Is a positive role model for children and colleagues.- Understands that being a Lead Teacher means taking ownership of the classroom.What We Offer- A supportive, family-oriented work environment.- An opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children's lives.- Opportunities for professional growth and development.- A collaborative team that values quality early childhood education.
About Discovery Point Lutz
Discovery Point Lutz is a family-owned preschool committed to providing quality early childhood education in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. Our leadership team believes in a people-first approach, strong family relationships, and creating an environment where both children and teachers can thrive.
Join our team and help make a difference every day!
My recommendationI would emphasize one thing when hiring: you want a teacher who can independently run a classroom, not someone who simply follows directions.
A Lead Teacher should take ownership of:- Lesson planning and classroom preparation.- Classroom organization and cleanliness.- Parent communication.- Children's developmental progress.- Guiding and directing the assistant teacher.