About Children of America (COA): Children of America is a unique blend of people, principles, and pride that makes our organization rich in diversity and strength. As a Lead Teacher, you will work alongside a talented team of educators in a supportive environment where you are encouraged to grow professionally and share your passion for early childhood education.

Our programs serve children ages 6 weeks to 12 years, including Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Before & After Care, and Summer Camp. Our culture encourages employees to bring their whole selves to work, because your unique perspectives and experiences make our team stronger.

Who You'll Interact With

This role interacts daily with children, parents, management, and teaching staff to support a collaborative and positive learning environment.

Minimum Requirements

• Must be 21 years of Age

• Bachelor's Degree (minimum) and valid New York State Teaching Certification (often required for UPK, though may start with non-early childhood certification).

• Associate's degree in early childhood education OR at least 90 undergraduate credits, plus one year of experience in Pre-K, Kindergarten, or grades 1-2. These teachers must be on a Department of Health (DOH) approved study plan to obtain certification

• Experience: At least two years of supervised, documented experience in a pre-school program is often required for higher-level lead positions.

• CPR and First Aid certification

• Must meet all state licensing requirements

• Strong organizational and decision-making skills

• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff

• Flexible and adaptable in challenging situations

• Commitment to professional growth

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Responsible for carrying out daily lesson plans

• Assist in creating a safe, structured, and positive learning environment

• Communicate professionally with parents, children, and team members

• Utilize technology to document and deliver child progress reports

• Exhibit empathy toward children's emotions and parents' needs

• Present age-appropriate expectations for children

• Be creative, passionate, and engaged in your work

• Demonstrate willingness to grow into a Lead Teacher role

Our Shared Mission & Values

• Accountability: Take responsibility, learn from mistakes, and uphold COA's mission and values

• Collaboration: Align solutions that meet stakeholder needs

• Growth Mindset: Treat challenges as opportunities for learning and growth

• Integrity: Make decisions ethically and consider their impact on all stakeholders

• Consistency: Ensure continuity of care and clear expectations for children and families

Benefits

• Internal career advancement opportunities

• 50% employee childcare discount

• Educational assistance and T.E.A.C.H. scholarship partnerships

• Employee referral bonuses and recognition programs

• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, accident, disability

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid vacation and holidays

The Hourly pay rate range for this position is $25.00 - $26.00 hourly. Final compensation will be based on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. This role may also be eligible for performance-based incentives or other benefits.

Children of America is committed to fair and transparent hiring practices. This job description is intended to comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and state-specific pay transparency regulations.

The listed responsibilities, qualifications, and compensation range reflect the essential functions and expectations of the role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, geographic location, and internal equity.

Children of America is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.