Lead Preschool Teacher

Job Overview

We are hiring Lead Preschool Teachers to join classrooms across General Day Care, Head Start, 3K, and UPK programs in the Bronx, NY. This is a meaningful classroom leadership role focused on creating a safe, warm, and developmentally rich learning environment where young children can thrive.

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning instruction, supporting child development, and engaging families as active partners in each child’s growth. The ideal candidate brings strong early childhood education expertise, a commitment to ongoing professional learning, and a passion for advancing the vision of high-quality early education.

Key Requirements

• NYS Teaching Certification (Birth to Grade 2), OR
• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and currently pursuing a Master’s degree and teacher certification (Study Plan eligible).
• Strong understanding of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Experience working with preschool-age children in General Day Care, Head Start, 3K, or UPK settings preferred.
• Ability to plan and lead engaging, structured classroom instruction.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to actively engage parents and caregivers.
• Familiarity with IFSP/IEP goals and behavior support plan implementation.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and continued learning.
• Willingness and ability to relocate to Bronx, NY 10456 prior to start date (required).

Role Responsibilities

• Structure a learning environment that promotes child health, safety, and well-being.
• Plan and lead classroom instruction that is developmentally appropriate and aligned with each child’s needs.
• Implement a daily schedule that incorporates structured transitions and age-appropriate learning opportunities.
• Create a safe, warm, and nurturing classroom environment conducive to early learning.
• Actively engage with families to ensure parents and caregivers are informed about classroom activities and their child’s progress.
• Support implementation of behavior plans and IFSP/IEP goals where applicable.
• Collaborate with co-teachers, assistants, and program leadership to maintain high-quality classroom standards.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development sessions.
• Maintain accurate documentation of attendance, progress notes, and required compliance records.
• Promote the organization’s vision for high-quality early childhood education.

We Offer

• Competitive salary range of $55,000 – $65,000 per year, based on education and experience level.
• $3,000 Sign-On Bonus — $1,000 paid upon completing onboarding within two weeks, plus $2,000 after 90 days of employment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holiday pay.
• Tuition discount available for eligible family members across program locations.
• Full-time, 8-hour shift schedule with predictable hours.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and continued learning.
• A collaborative, mission-driven environment focused on early childhood excellence.
• Meaningful, daily impact on the lives of children and families.

Our Hiring Process

We aim to make the hiring experience clear and straightforward. After reviewing your application, qualified candidates will be invited to an initial phone screen, followed by an in-person interview and classroom observation with the center leadership team. Final candidates will complete reference checks, credential verification, and required background clearances prior to receiving an offer.

About the Organization

Our client is a respected early childhood education provider dedicated to creating nurturing, high-quality learning environments where children thrive through play, discovery, and meaningful instruction. They partner with families, educators, and community stakeholders to deliver care and education that sets the foundation for lifelong success.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 – $65,000.00 per year + $3,000 Sign-On Bonus

Schedule: 8-hour shift

Work Location: In person — Bronx, NY 10456

Ability to Relocate: Required — must relocate to Bronx, NY 10456 before starting work.

Tagged as: 3k, Birth to Grade 2, Early Childhood Education, Head Start, NYS Certification, Sign-on Bonus, UPK