First Steps 4K Lead Teacher

What You'll Do

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, research-based curriculum aligned with South Carolina Early Learning Standards.
• Create engaging lesson plans that support early literacy, math, science, social studies, fine arts, and social-emotional development.
• Establish and maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating classroom environment with interactive learning centers, including dramatic play, blocks, literacy, art, science, and mathematics.
• Conduct ongoing child assessments using the GOLD® by Teaching Strategies assessment system to monitor progress and inform instruction.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including children with special needs and diverse learning styles.
• Foster strong family partnerships through regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, progress updates, and family engagement activities.
• Document children’s developmental growth, learning milestones, and classroom observations accurately and consistently.
• Collaborate with the First Steps 4K instructional coach to support continuous classroom improvement and instructional excellence.
• Participate in required professional development, training sessions, and coaching opportunities to strengthen teaching practices.
• Maintain accurate program documentation, including attendance records, assessments, incident reports, and compliance paperwork.
• Ensure classroom operations and teaching practices align with First Steps 4K program requirements, licensing regulations, and state guidelines.
• Promote school readiness by supporting children’s academic, social, emotional, and behavioral growth in preparation for kindergarten success.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field OR a Bachelor’s degree in any field with at least 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.
• Must be enrolled in, or willing to enroll in, a teacher education program within four years of employment if certification requirements have not been met.
• Preferred candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education.
• Teaching certification or progress toward certification is highly preferred.
• Previous experience working in early childhood education settings is preferred.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain certification within 90 days of employment.
• Must successfully pass a background check and meet all requirements for working with young children.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage families, collaborate with team members, and build positive relationships.
• Demonstrated commitment to professional growth and continuous learning, including completion of required annual professional development hours.
• Passion for supporting school readiness, child development, and high-quality early childhood education.

Nice to Have

Preferred Qualifications – First Steps 4K Lead Teacher

Advanced Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a closely related field.
• Teaching certification or active progress toward certification.
• Training or certification in Creative Curriculum and GOLD® by Teaching Strategies assessment system.
• Coursework or professional training in special education, inclusion practices, or early intervention.

Professional Experience

• 2+ years of experience in early childhood education, particularly with children ages birth to five.
• Previous 4K, Pre-K, Head Start, or state-funded preschool classroom leadership experience.
• Experience working with at-risk children, diverse populations, or Title I settings.
• Student teaching, practicum, or direct classroom teaching experience in early childhood settings.

Specialized Skills

• Bilingual communication skills (English/Spanish preferred, but not required).
• Experience with family engagement, parent communication, and community partnerships.
• Training in behavior management strategies, such as Conscious Discipline, PBIS, or similar approaches.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices and supporting children with special needs.
• Strong technology skills, including educational apps, classroom management systems, and digital communication tools.

Assessment & Curriculum Expertise

• Familiarity with ECERS (Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale) and developmental screening tools such as ASQ-3 or DIAL-3.
• Experience collecting and analyzing child progress data to guide instructional planning.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction, play-based learning, and social-emotional learning curricula (e.g., Second Step, Zones of Regulation).

Professional Leadership & Growth

• Completion of SC Endeavors training hours or similar early childhood professional development.
• Participation in professional learning communities, conferences, workshops, or advocacy efforts related to early childhood education.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to continuous improvement and program excellence.

Personal Attributes

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail for documentation, compliance, and classroom management.
• Creativity in lesson planning and creating engaging learning experiences.
• Cultural competency and experience working with diverse children and families.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit when working with families, coaches, and colleagues.
• Positive attitude, strong communication skills, and a growth mindset.

Technical Competencies

• Experience using MyTeachingStrategies, ChildPlus, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or similar data and classroom management systems.
• Ability to use technology for family communication, progress monitoring, and classroom documentation.
• Social media or digital communication experience for family engagement and program promotion.

Community Engagement

• Familiarity with First Steps Partnerships and South Carolina early childhood networks.
• Established connections within the local early childhood education community are a plus.

These preferred qualifications will help candidates transition smoothly into the role, contribute immediately to program quality, and support long-term success for children and families.

Benefits