Lead Preschool Teacher

Our Mission

BrightStars helps families in Rhode Island access QUALITY child care, early learning, and school-age programs. We help child care providers learn about best practices in early learning and apply them to the care children receive. We recognize program quality and give parents information to make choices about their children’s care and education.

Lead Preschool Teacher

Program Name:
A Family Tree Early Learning Center

Program Address:
1669 Warwick Ave
Warwick
RI
02889

______________________

Position Description:

We are seeking a caring, dependable, and experienced **Lead Preschool Teacher** to join our fun, fast-paced early learning center. The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment while implementing a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum. This role works closely with the Education Coordinator to ensure curriculum planning aligns with the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards and supports the whole-child approach to learning.

Our ideal candidate is patient, kind, professional, and passionate about early childhood education. The Lead Teacher must be comfortable guiding young children through daily routines, encouraging curiosity and creativity, and building strong partnerships with families.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum & Instruction
Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum aligned with the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards.
Collaborate with the Education Coordinator to ensure a well-rounded and engaging learning environment.
Prepare weekly lesson plans and classroom activities that support children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
Observe and assess children’s development and learning progress.
Use observation and assessment to adjust teaching strategies and support individual learning needs.

Classroom Leadership
Lead and manage the daily classroom schedule and routines.
Supervise, guide, and mentor assistant teachers and classroom aides.
Ensure children are actively supervised and engaged at all times.
Create a positive classroom culture built on kindness, patience, and respect.
Implement positive behavior guidance strategies that support children’s social-emotional development.

Family Communication
Maintain professional and respectful communication with families.
Share updates about children’s progress, milestones, and daily activities.
Participate in family conferences, classroom events, and center activities when needed.
Help create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all families.

Health, Safety & Compliance
Maintain compliance with all DCYF regulations and center policies.
Ensure the classroom is clean, organized, and safe at all times.
Follow health and safety procedures, including proper sanitation and supervision.
Conduct regular safety checks of the classroom and playground.
Maintain accurate documentation such as attendance, incident reports, and classroom records.

Team Collaboration
Work collaboratively with leadership and teaching staff to support center goals.
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
Support a team culture focused on respect, communication, and continuous improvement.
Assist in maintaining a positive workplace that reflects the center’s mission and values.

Qualifications:
Qualifications
Must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential OR a minimum of 12 college credits in Early Childhood Education or a related field
Experience working with preschool-aged children in a licensed early childhood program preferred.
Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.
Familiarity with the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards preferred.
Understanding of DCYF regulations and licensing requirements.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Excellent organizational and classroom management skills.
Patient, dependable, professional, and able to work as part of a team.

Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
Ability to sit on the floor, bend, kneel, and actively engage with young children.
Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.

Preferred Certifications

CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
Continued professional development in early childhood education.

How To Apply:
www.familytreeschoolage.com

Other Information:
Bright Stars Program
We particpate in TEACH and CDA Program

Where Do Applicants Need to Apply?
Online on website

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