Lead Childcare Teacher (Full-Time)

Help shape young minds and lead a classroom where children thrive!

Location: KidsPoint C Street

Organizational Overview

For over 130 years, Waypoint has been dedicated to inspiring people to move forward. We continuously evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of individuals, children, and families in our community through a variety of services and resources. Through this work, we remain devoted to improving lives and strengthening our community.

Waypoint Values

· Having Compassion 

· Instilling Ownership 

· Empowering People 

· Embracing Diversity 

Position Summary

Are you passionate about early childhood education and ready to lead a classroom where children can learn, grow, and thrive? Join our team as a Lead Teacher and lead our 3 Year Old Preschool classroom where children can learn, grow, and thrive. You’ll oversee daily classroom operations, implement curriculum, mentor Assistant Teachers, partner with families, and ensure compliance with licensing and agency standards.

Pay & Schedule

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM-5:45 PM

Schedule: Full-Time, 40 hours per week

Shift: 8:00AM-5:00PM (some flexibility may be required)

Starting Pay: $16.50/hour

Benefits That Support You

· Paid Time Off 

· 12 Paid Holidays 

· Medical, Dental, Vision, and Pet Insurance 

· 401(k) with Employer Match 

· Employer Paid Life Insurance & Disability 

· FSA & HSA options 

· Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Why You'll Love This Job

· Make a lasting impact during children's most important developmental years 

· Lead your own classroom and help children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning 

· Mentor and support Assistant Teachers 

· Build meaningful relationships with children and families 

· No nights or weekends 

What You'll Do

As a Lead Teacher, you'll oversee your classroom while creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that supports each child's growth and development.

In this role, you will:

· Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and engaging daily learning experiences 

· Create a positive, safe, and nurturing classroom environment 

· Support children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development 

· Lead classroom routines, transitions, meals, and daily activities 

· Supervise, coach, and provide day-to-day direction to Assistant Teachers 

· Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication and updates 

· Observe children's development and maintain required documentation 

· Use positive guidance techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and problem-solving 

· Observe, assess, and document children’s developmental progress and communicate milestones with families

· Conduct parent-teacher conferences and partner with families to support each child’s growth

· Provide guidance and support to classroom volunteers as needed

· Help maintain classroom enrollment by creating a welcoming, high-quality learning environment

· Ensure compliance with Iowa licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and Waypoint policies 

· Participate in team meetings, professional development, and ongoing training 

 What You'll Bring

We're looking for someone who is passionate about early childhood education and enjoys leading others while creating a positive learning environment.

You'll thrive in this role if you are:

· Caring, patient, and enthusiastic about helping children learn and grow 

· A confident leader who can guide and support fellow teachers 

· Dependable and accountable—you take ownership and follow through 

· An effective communicator with children, families, and coworkers 

· Organized and able to prioritize in a fast-paced environment 

· Flexible and adaptable to changing classroom needs 

· Committed to continuous learning and professional growth 

· Aligned with Waypoint's Values: Have Compassion, Instill Ownership, Empower People, and Embrace Diversity 

What You'll Need

To be successful in this role, you should:

· Be at least 18 years old 

· Have a Bachelor's or Associate’s degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education or a related field or a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification (preferred)

· Have two years of childcare experience (preferred)

- Have lead teaching experience (preferred)

· Have proven experience planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities for young children 

· Feel confident communicating with families and leading a classroom 

· Be willing and able to complete required trainings (CPR/First Aid, Mandatory Reporter, etc.) 

· Have reliable transportation and a strong commitment to attendance 

· Be able to remain active throughout your shift and lift up to 50 pounds 

· Meet background check and health screening requirements 

Ready to make a difference with Waypoint? Apply today and join a team that helps children learn, grow, and succeed every day.