Job Description

The Goddard School of Pioneer Square is a premier, private preschool in downtown Seattle and we are more than just a daycare. We pride ourselves on a warm, inquiry-based learning environment where curiosity is embraced, and children thrive. We are seeking an enthusiastic Lead Teacher to join our team of passionate educators. In this role, you will lead a classroom of young learners, guiding an assistant teacher and support staff to implement our renowned Wonder of Learning(TM) curriculum. If you are a nurturing, creative educator who believes in the power of everyday moments to shape children's development, we invite you to consider this opportunity.

Responsibilities & Expectations:

Create a Safe, Nurturing Environment:

Establish and maintain a

safe, healthy, and nurturing classroom

at all times. Ensure that children are supervised within required state ratios and that all health and safety policies are followed.

Curriculum Planning & Teaching:

Develop and implement

engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans

aligned with The Goddard School's curriculum. Adapt activities to meet each child's needs and encourage exploration, creativity, and active play. Provide a balanced mix of teacher-guided and child-led learning to foster well-rounded development.

Child Development & Guidance:

Support the

social, emotional, and cognitive growth

of every child. Set developmentally appropriate expectations, encourage positive behaviors, and use positive guidance techniques to help children build confidence and empathy.

Team Leadership:

Lead and

mentor the Assistant Teacher and Support Teacher

in your classroom. Model best practices in early childhood education and collaborate to maintain a consistent, high-quality program.

Family Engagement:

Build positive, professional relationships with families. Communicate regularly about children's progress and daily activities (e.g. through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences) to make families feel involved in their child's learning journey.

Compliance & Safety:

Understand and adhere to all

Goddard School emergency procedures

and Washington licensing regulations. This includes performing regular classroom cleaning as needed, supervising safe eating practices, and maintaining an orderly, child-friendly space.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

Must be at least 18 years old with a

high school diploma or GED

(required by Washington state).

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

(or a related field) is

highly preferred

, or a

CDA (Child Development Associate) credential

and ongoing coursework in ECE.

Experience:

At least

1 year of experience

teaching or caring for young children in a licensed childcare or preschool setting (preferred). A passion for early childhood education and child development is a must.

State Compliance:

Must meet all Washington

WAC

requirements for lead preschool teachers. This includes completing required

pre-service training

, and either holding or being willing to obtain the state ECE Initial Certificate within the required timeframe. Candidates must be able to

pass a DCYF background check and TB test

as required by law ( WAC 110-300-0100: ).

Certifications:

Current

CPR/First Aid certification

(or ability to obtain upon hire) and a Food Handler's permit are required for ensuring children's safety.

Skills:

Strong knowledge of

early childhood development

, excellent

classroom management

and organizational skills, and the ability to design a fun, educational environment. Effective communication skills to collaborate with families and coworkers.

Salary & Benefits:

Health & Wellness:

Full-time employees are eligible for

medical, dental, and vision insurance

coverage to keep you and your family healthy.

Paid Time Off:

Enjoy

paid holidays and vacation/PTO

days so you can recharge. We recognize the importance of work-life balance for our teachers.

Childcare Benefits:

Take advantage of

childcare benefits

including discounted tuition for your own children to attend The Goddard School.

Professional Development:

Ongoing

training and professional development

opportunities are provided. As a Goddard teacher, you'll have access to

Goddard University

and regular workshops to continue growing in your career.

Work Environment:

No nights or weekends

- enjoy a consistent Monday-Friday daytime schedule. You'll be part of a supportive team culture with engaged owners and directors who value teachers. We celebrate our teachers with appreciation events and a positive, fun workplace!

If you are a dedicated educator looking to lead a classroom where your ideas, creativity, and passion will be valued, we want to hear from you! Join The Goddard School of Pioneer Square and become part of a community that is making a difference in children's lives every day. Apply today to embark on a rewarding career with a school that prides itself on excellence, support, and the joy of learning. We can't wait to welcome an inspiring Lead Teacher like you to our team - come grow with us and help shape bright futures!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location: In person