Head Pre-K Teacher

About the Job:

Job Title: Head Pre-K Teacher

Reports to: Center Director or Executive Director.

About Us:

Tiny Steps Learning Center is a warm, community-focused early childhood education center dedicated to nurturing children and supporting families through high-quality care and learning. Rooted in the Grow NJ Kids quality standards, our program emphasizes hands-on exploration, social-emotional growth, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

As part of our team, Pre-K educators are trusted leaders who inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where teachers have the resources and professional development needed to thrive. At Tiny Steps, we value collaboration, compassion, and a shared dedication to preparing children for success in school and beyond.

Position Summary:

The Head Pre-K Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising a high-quality, developmentally appropriate educational program for children ages 3–5 in alignment with New Jersey State learning standards and licensing requirements. The Head Teacher leads the Pre-K classroom team, ensures a safe and nurturing environment, and partners with families to support each child’s growth, learning, and well-being.

Key Responsibilities:

Curriculum & Instruction:

• Plan and deliver daily lessons that align with the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards.
• Create a structured, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment that fosters social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including children with special needs and English language learners.
• Integrate play-based and project-based learning into daily activities.

Classroom Leadership:

• Serve as the lead educator in the Pre-K classroom and model best teaching practices.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Assistant Teachers, paraprofessionals, and classroom aides.
• Maintain classroom management systems that promote positive behavior, respect, and collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with all Department of Children and Families (DCF) and Department of Education (DOE) regulations.

Child Development & Assessment:

• Conduct ongoing observations, assessments, and documentation of children’s development using approved tools (e.g., Teaching Strategies GOLD, COR Advantage).
• Share assessment results with families and administrators in a clear and respectful manner.
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans for children as needed.

Family & Community Engagement:

• Build strong, positive relationships with families and keep them informed about their child’s progress.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and family engagement activities.
• Collaborate with community partners and support services when appropriate.

Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment.
• Follow all health and safety protocols, including those required by NJ DCF, DOH, and CACFP guidelines.
• Ensure accurate documentation of attendance, incident reports, and required compliance records.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• New Jersey P-3 Certification a plus.
• At least 2 years of experience as a lead or head teacher in an early childhood setting.
• Strong knowledge of child development, curriculum planning, and NJ Preschool Teaching & Learning Standards.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time, exempt position.
• Monday–Friday schedule, with occasional evening family events or professional development.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs. and actively engage with children indoors and outdoors.