Early Childhood Lead Teacher

Summary

Join OU’s Early Childhood Program as a Lead Teacher at the Institute of Child Development (ICD) Lab School

The Institute of Child Development at the University of Oklahoma invites passionate, reflective, and collaborative Early Childhood Educators to join our University Laboratory School. We are seeking applications for full‑time (nine‑month) Lead Teacher positions for our program serving children ages 1 through 5 years.

As a Reggio‑inspired university lab school, the ICD has three core goals:

1. Mentorship & Teacher Preparation: Provide a developmentally appropriate, high‑quality environment for undergraduate and graduate students to observe, practice, and grow as future educators.
2. High‑Quality Care & Family Engagement: Serve families of the university and broader community through responsive, relationship‑based care and education.
3. Research & Educational Innovation: Support faculty and student research, host study tours and visitors, and make learning visible through documentation.

Lead Teachers play a critical role in our community as guides, facilitators, mentors, and collaborators. Teachers co‑construct learning experiences with children through intentional, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate play‑based practice.

Teachers receive a yearly salary (can choose from 9-moth or 12-month pay options) and OU benefits.

Applicants must pass a comprehensive post‑offer background check, with ongoing clearance required.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter addressing their qualifications and interest
• Resume/CV
• Three professional references (names, phone numbers, and email addresses)
• Optional: 2–3 supporting materials such as teaching videos, lesson plans, documentation panels, or family newsletters

The position will remain open until filled.

Duties

Job Responsibilities

Lead Teachers at the ICD are responsible for, but not limited to:

Teaching & Classroom Leadership

• Teaching full day in the classroom.
• Creating a safe, nurturing, culturally responsive environment.
• Designing environments and experiences that foster inquiry, autonomy, collaboration, and creativity.
• Planning learning experiences based on early learning standards, developmental appropriateness, and Reggio‑inspired practice.
• Supporting children’s learning through observation, documentation, reflection, and ongoing assessment.

Mentorship & Professional Collaboration

• Serving as a cooperating/mentor teacher for practicum students, student aides, and visitors.
• Modeling reflective practice and openness to coaching and collaborative decision‑making.
• Supporting study tours, visitors, and research activities consistent with a university laboratory setting.
• Engaging respectfully and promptly with colleagues, families, faculty, and community members.
• Participating in monthly staff meetings and ICD Professional Development Days.

Family Engagement

• Building strong, respectful relationships with families.
• Communicating regularly with parents about learning, experiences, and developmental progress.

Professional Expectations

• Maintaining up‑to‑date CPR/First Aid, DHS training requirements, and yearly OU OnPoint training.
• Maintaining confidentiality in accordance with DHS and university standards.
• Caring for ICD materials, environments, and shared spaces with intention and respect.
• Actively participating in ongoing professional learning and contributing to the professional growth of others.

Requirements

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development (or closely related field).
• With preference given to those showing a commitment to pursuing a Master’s degree in ECE, Child Development, or a related field if not already obtained.

Physical Requirements

Lead Teachers must be able to:

• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Bend, kneel, and move comfortably in a classroom environment.
• Sit on the floor with children and transition between floor and standing positions.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching in an early childhood setting.
• Familiarity with early childhood standards, child development theories, and play‑based pedagogy.
• Experience with Reggio Emilia‑inspired practice, documentation, or research in early childhood settings.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a dynamic teaching team.