NC Pre-K Lead Teacher

NC Pre-K Lead Teacher Job Description Position Summary The NC Pre-K Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising a high-quality preschool classroom in compliance with North Carolina Pre-K Program Requirements, NC Child Care Licensing Rules, and all applicable federal and state regulations. The Lead Teacher ensures that classroom instruction supports school readiness and promotes the cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development of enrolled children.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with NC Pre-K standards and approved curriculum.
• Maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that supports positive child development.
• Conduct ongoing child assessments and maintain accurate documentation of developmental progress.
• Participate in required NC Pre-K reporting, data collection, and compliance monitoring.
• Maintain classroom records in accordance with NC Pre-K and licensing requirements.
• Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and classroom support staff.
• Maintain required child-to-staff ratios at all times.
• Conduct parent conferences and maintain regular communication with families.
• Participate in professional development and required NC Pre-K training.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and emergency procedures.
• Collaborate with administration and support staff to ensure program quality and compliance.

Qualifications

• Valid North Carolina Birth-Kindergarten (B-K) Teaching License or
• Meets NC Pre-K Lead Teacher education requirements and enrolled in the NC Early Educator Support, Licensure and Professional Development (EESLPD) Unit.
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Experience working with pre-kindergarten age children.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
• Satisfactory criminal background check and health screening as required by law. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Knowledge of early childhood development and best practices.
• Ability to implement research-based curriculum with fidelity.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and engage in physical activity required in early childhood settings. Working Conditions Work is performed in a classroom environment requiring frequent standing, bending, lifting a minimum of 50 pounds, and active supervision of young children. Outdoor supervision is required daily.