Lead Teacher (Early Childhood Education)
About This Role
Kids Academy of Learning & Excellence
We are seeking a nurturing, reliable, and organized Lead Teacher to join our growing early learning center. This role is ideal for an educator who enjoys working with children, creating a structured classroom environment, and partnering with families to support each child’s development. As a Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for managing your classroom, guiding daily routines, and supporting children’s social, emotional, and academic growth.
We are always accepting applications for this role.
What You'll Do
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage a classroom in a safe, structured, and engaging environment
- Implement daily lesson plans and age-appropriate activities (provided by the center)
- Support children’s social, emotional, and behavioral development
- Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and licensing compliance
- Communicate regularly with parents regarding their child’s day and progress
- Supervise and support assistant teachers or aides
- Ensure accurate attendance and daily documentation
- Complete required ongoing professional development and training
- Experience working with children in a childcare or preschool setting
- Meets state licensing requirements for a Lead Teacher
- Strong classroom management and communication skills
- Dependable, professional, and team-oriented
- Passion for early childhood education
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 Have
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
About Kids Academy of Learning & Excellence powered by CORE (KALE)
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.
Common Questions
What is the education required for this position?
At least an associate degree is required
What does this position pay?
This Lead Teacher (Early Childhood Education) role pays $14 to $20/Hr.
Is this full-time or part-time?
This job is Full Time.
Where is Kids Academy of Learning & Excellence powered by CORE (KALE) located?
Kids Academy of Learning & Excellence powered by CORE (KALE) is located at 601 Southlake Boulevard, North Chesterfield, VA