Lead Teachers – Infant/ Toddler / Preschool/ Pre-k

Summary

Kids Academy CORE Foundation, Inc. is seeking an experienced Lead Teacher to deliver high-quality early learning in a licensed childcare and early learning center. This role is responsible for classroom leadership, curriculum delivery, and compliance with Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) Child Day Center Licensing Regulations (8VAC20-780). The Lead Teacher supports children ages 6 weeks through school-age, as licensed, and integrates STE(AI)M, AI, and Robotics with developmentally appropriate early childhood education practices. The candidate will need to have CACFP Experience is a must.

Duties

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with early learning standards
• Integrate STE(AI)M, technology, AI, and robotics into daily classroom instruction
• Observe, assess, and document child development and learning progress
• Communicate child progress and classroom updates with families
• Lead and support assistant teachers and classroom staff
• Maintain safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environments
• Ensure compliance with VDOE 8VAC20-780 health, safety, supervision, and recordkeeping requirements
• Partner with families and community or school partners
• Complete required ongoing professional development and training

Requirements

Required Education and Qualifications

Candidates must meet VDOE Child Day Center (8VAC20-780) qualification requirements and meet one of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree in Education with endorsement in early childhood, elementary education, or special education
• Bachelor’s degree in a child-related field with required early childhood coursework
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development
• Early Childhood Certificate (minimum of 30 semester hours of child-related coursework)
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent

Experience Requirements:

• Experience aligned with education pathway per VDOE regulations
• Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate curriculum

Required Certifications

• Current CPR (Pediatric and Adult) certification
• Current First Aid certification
• Ability to pass all required Virginia background checks (Central Registry and Criminal History)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and supervise children for extended periods
• Physical capability to respond to classroom and emergency situations

Health and Safety Requirements

• Documentation of a negative TB screening per VDOE requirements
• Completion and maintenance of Daily Health Observation (DHO) training
• Completion of Emergency Preparedness and Response training
• Completion of Child Abuse and Neglect Training within required timelines
• Compliance with communicable disease reporting and return-to-care policies
• Ongoing compliance with all childcare health, safety, and sanitation standards
• Employment contingent upon meeting and maintaining all required screenings and trainings

Nice To Haves

Professional Standards

• Maintain confidentiality of all child and family information
• Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct at all times
• Report suspected child abuse or neglect as required by Virginia law
• Uphold the mission and values of Kids Academy CORE Foundation

Professional Development

• Complete annual training requirements per Virginia licensing regulations
• Participate in professional development related to early childhood education and STE(AI)M instruction
• Maintain current knowledge of educational technology and innovative teaching practices
• Be currently in the position of a Lead Teacher

Benefits

Compensation and Benefits

• Compensation: Based on experience and qualifications
• Benefits: Paid time off, paid holidays, professional development opportunities
• Enrollment Bonus
• Additional benefits may apply

About Us

Kids Academy of Learning & Excellence (KALE), powered by the CORE Foundation, is a next-generation early learning ecosystem built to nurture the whole child—mind, heart, spirit, and future potential. Rooted in compassion and community impact, KALE blends strong early childhood fundamentals with STE(AI)M™ innovation, literacy foundations, and character development. Our work is purpose-driven, family-centered, and excellence-focused.