Early Childhood - Lead Teacher (2nd Shift)

Summary

Dream Preparatory Academy seeks a dynamic and dedicated Early Childhood Lead Teacher to guide and nurture our young learners during the 2nd shift. This vital role will be responsible for creating and maintaining a stimulating, safe, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children aged 3-5 years old. The Lead Teacher will implement engaging activities, foster social-emotional growth, and communicate effectively with children, parents, and colleagues, ensuring a positive and enriching experience during our extended day program.

Duties

Classroom Leadership & Management (2nd Shift):

• Plan, prepare, and implement developmentally appropriate activities and curriculum that align with the academy's philosophy and early childhood best practices during the 2nd shift.
• Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment that fosters curiosity, exploration, and independence.
• Manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior effectively, using positive guidance techniques.
• Supervise and ensure the safety and well-being of all children in the classroom at all times during the 2nd shift.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating learning space.
• Adapt curriculum and activities to meet the individual needs and learning styles of each child.
• Collaborate with the Early Childhood Program Director/Co-Director on curriculum development and implementation.

Child Development & Learning (2nd Shift):

• Observe and document children's progress and development, identifying individual strengths and areas for growth.
• Support children's social-emotional development, helping them build positive relationships, self-regulation skills, and conflict resolution abilities.
• Foster language development and literacy skills through storytelling, read-alouds, and engaging conversations.
• Introduce basic concepts in mathematics, science, and art through hands-on activities and play.
• Encourage creativity and self-expression through various art mediums, music, and dramatic play.
• Promote physical development through active play and movement activities.

  

Communication & Collaboration (2nd Shift):

• Communicate effectively and professionally with parents/guardians regarding their child's day, progress, and any relevant information during pick-up times or through other communication methods.
• Collaborate with other 2nd shift staff, including assistant teachers and support personnel, to ensure a cohesive and supportive environment.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities as required.
• Maintain open and positive communication with the Early Childhood Program Director/Co- Director.

Other Responsibilities:

• Follow all academy policies and procedures, including health and safety guidelines.
• Assist with snack preparation and clean-up.
• Supervise children during outdoor play and transitions.
• Maintain accurate attendance records.
• Report any concerns regarding a child's well-being to the appropriate personnel.
• Participate in academy events as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Co-Director.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (Bachelor's degree preferred).
• Proven experience working with young children in an educational setting.
• Knowledge of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Strong classroom management skills and experience with positive guidance techniques.
• Excellent communication (oral and written), interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
• Proactive self-starter who demonstrates a continuous growth mindset and a commitment to process improvement. 
• Patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for working with young children.
• Ability to create a stimulating and engaging learning environment.
• First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to pass a background check and other required clearances.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the Academy

Schedule:

• Full-Time or Part-time work coverage, based on the academy's 2^nd shift schedule requirement that starts from 2:30PM to 11:30PM.

Nice To Haves

• Foundational knowledge of Montessori or STEAM educational frameworks, with a proven ability to adapt and excel in specialized learning environments is strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.

About Us

Dream Preparatory Academy, located in Greenville, SC, is a unique educational organization that offers a new teaching style to break traditional barriers of learning repetitive lessons in a prepared routine environment. Our goal is to create a more interactive, hands-on learning environment that is technology-focused and can integrate classroom-to-home management.