Position Summary:
The Lead Teacher in the Two-Year-Old Classroom is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of young children. The Lead Teacher plans and implements daily lessons, supervises classroom staff, communicates with families, and ensures compliance with all licensing regulations and program policies.
Key Responsibilities:
Curriculum & Instruction:
- Develop and implement weekly lesson plans aligned with developmentally appropriate practice and the Maryland Early Learning Standards.
- Plan engaging activities that support language, social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
- Use the children’s interests and assessments to individualize learning experiences.
- Guide classroom routines such as circle time, meal/snack time, toileting, and transitions.
- Implement and adapt the Experience Early Learning Curriculum to meet classroom goals.
Health & Safety:
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
- Follow all health and safety procedures, including supervision, sanitation, diapering/toileting, and incident reporting.
- Administer basic first aid and document injuries as needed.
Classroom Leadership:
- Provide direction and support to assistant teachers and aides.
- Model positive behavior guidance strategies and respectful communication.
- Monitor the classroom daily to ensure ratios and classroom flow are maintained.
- Create a calm, structured, and respectful environment where children can thrive.
Family Communication:
- Build positive, professional relationships with families.
- Provide regular updates about children’s progress, routines, and classroom activities.
- Participate in family conferences and events as needed.
- Communicate openly and respectfully regarding behavior, developmental concerns, or changes in routine.
Assessment & Documentation:
- Conduct observations and maintain developmental portfolios.
- Complete required documentation, checklists, and progress reports in a timely manner.
- Contribute to developmental screenings and assessments as appropriate.
Professionalism & Compliance:
- Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and staff.
- Meet all licensing requirements for training and credentials.
- Attend required staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
- Follow all Annie’s ELC policies and Maryland EXCELS guidelines.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 19 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.
- 90-Hour Child Care Certificate (Preschool) or equivalent coursework required.
- Minimum 1 year experience working with toddlers or preschool-age children.
- Must meet Maryland Office of Child Care requirements for Lead Teacher in a 2-year-old classroom.
- CPR/First Aid Certification (or willing to obtain).
- Ability to lift 40 lbs., bend, sit on the floor, and maintain active supervision.
Preferred Qualifications:
- CDA or A.A. in Early Childhood Education or related field.
- Experience leading a classroom and supervising assistant staff.
- Knowledge of Maryland EXCELS, Healthy Beginnings, or Experience Early Learning Curriculum.
