Lead Teacher at M1 Kids Academy

Summary

At M1 Kids Academy, our Lead Teachers play a central role in shaping a nurturing, faith-based, and developmentally rich environment where children can thrive. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about early childhood education and committed to fostering a love of learning through play, exploration, and strong relationships. Lead Teachers serve as positive role models who guide both children and teaching teams, ensuring that classrooms reflect the values, mission, and excellence of M1 Kids Academy.

Duties

• Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons that support children’s growth in all areas of development.
• Create a warm, nurturing, and faith-centered classroom environment where every child feels valued and safe.
• Foster positive relationships with children, families, and staff through daily communication and collaboration.
• Guide and support assistant teachers and classroom staff to maintain a consistent and high-quality learning environment.
• Observe, assess, and document children’s progress to inform instruction and share with families.
• Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and compliance with Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) licensing regulations and Step Up to Quality standards.
• Promote positive behavior management strategies that encourage respect, responsibility, and kindness.
• Partner with families to support each child’s individual needs and growth.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development to continually strengthen teaching practices.

Requirements

• Must meet Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Lead Teacher qualifications.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Minimum of one year experience working in a licensed early childhood program.
• Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practices, and classroom management.
• Ability to plan, implement, and assess engaging learning activities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with children, families, and coworkers.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and faith-centered environment.
• Must pass required background checks and medical/TB requirements per state licensing regulations.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development and Step Up to Quality training.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.

Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.

CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention certifications.

Experience with Step Up to Quality standards and documentation.

Familiarity with Creative Curriculum or other research-based early childhood curricula.

Previous leadership experience mentoring or supervising classroom staff.

Strong organizational skills and creativity in lesson planning.

Bilingual skills (English/Spanish or other languages) to better serve diverse families.

A heart for ministry and a passion for integrating faith-based principles into teaching.

Benefits

Discounted child care for employees at M1 Kids Academy.

Paid Time Off (PTO) for full-time employees (after one year).

Holiday pay for full-time employees (after one year).

Paid professional development hours and/or coverage of professional development costs.

Retirement plan option.

Access to Docs Online for convenient telemedicine support.

Access to ELRO (Early Learning Resources Ohio), which provides:

• Discounts on classroom supplies, technology, and services.

• Professional development tools, training, and resources.

• Access to job-related templates, business supports, and statewide ECE resources.

Employee discounts through ELRO partnerships on various products and services.