Lead Teacher (Infant/Toddler) – POPI Childcare

POPI Childcare is seeking a qualified and motivated Lead Teacher to support high-quality early learning in accordance with MSDE licensing and credentialing requirements. This role is essential in creating a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment where children can grow socially, emotionally, and academically. As a Lead Teacher, you will take primary responsibility for classroom instruction, supervision, and compliance, while working collaboratively with families, administrators, and support staff to ensure positive outcomes for all children.

Responsibilities

Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with MSDE Early Learning Standards, including literacy, math, physical development, and social-emotional learning.
Serve as the primary instructional lead in the classroom, ensuring curriculum consistency, classroom structure, and daily routines meet licensing standards.
Manage classroom behavior using positive guidance strategies consistent with POPI’s philosophy and MSDE regulations.
Support children with diverse learning needs by implementing individualized supports, accommodations, or IFSP/IEP recommendations in collaboration with specialists and families.
Conduct ongoing child observations and assessments to track progress and guide instruction, maintaining required documentation for licensing and program monitoring.
Collaborate with administrators, therapists, and support professionals to promote children’s holistic development and ensure compliance with service plans.
Maintain accurate records including lesson plans, attendance, assessments, incident reports, and family communication logs as required by MSDE.
Build and maintain strong partnerships with families through consistent, respectful communication regarding child development and classroom expectations.
Mentor assistant teachers and model best practices in classroom management, professionalism, and child engagement.

Experience & Qualifications

Meets MSDE Lead Teacher qualification requirements, including required credentials, coursework, or approved equivalencies. (90 Hr (Infant /oddler), CDA , AA (ECE), or Bachelors in Education , 9 hour Communication Training, Americans with Disability Act Training, Basic and Safety Training and Breast Feeding )
Prior experience working as a Lead Teacher or primary classroom teacher in a licensed early childhood setting.
Strong understanding of child development, classroom management, and developmentally appropriate practices.
Experience supporting children with special needs, developmental delays, or behavioral challenges preferred.
Ability to follow licensing regulations, health and safety requirements, and POPI’s operational policies.
Strong communication and collaboration skills when working with families, colleagues, and administrators.
Familiarity with curriculum frameworks, assessment tools, and early learning pedagogies is a plus.

Why Join POPI Childcare

At POPI, Lead Teachers are valued as professionals and instructional leaders. We are committed to maintaining MSDE compliance while fostering a collaborative, supportive workplace where educators are respected, supported, and empowered to grow.

Pay: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee discount
Health insurance
Paid time off
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Parents of Preschoolers Inc

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