Annual Compensation: $47,840 - $49,920

Position Type: Full-Time, On-site

Are you the person who can turn a cardboard box into a spaceship? Do you believe that “why?” is the most exciting question in the world? If you've got patience for days and a laugh that's contagious, we want to meet you!

VIP's Roots Early Education Center is seeking a Lead Preschool Teacher to join our team of dedicated early childhood educators. We are looking for a passionate, energetic, and nurturing professional who is committed to creating meaningful learning experiences and making a lasting impact on the lives of young children. This role works closely with our Licensed Preschool Teachers and education team to provide a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for every child.

Why You'll Love It Here

• The Best Coworkers: They're all under four feet tall, incredibly creative, and always happy to see you 😂
• Growth Opportunities: We value your expertise and provide the tools, support, and professional development opportunities to help you grow your career in early childhood education.
• Play with a Purpose: Your "office" is a world of art, stories, imaginative play, and outdoor adventures.

What You'll Do

• Create a safe, nurturing "home away from home" environment where children can develop social skills, independence, and self-confidence.
• Lead hands-on activities that spark curiosity and encourage children's learning and development through art, music, storytelling, sensory experiences, and exploration.
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Foster an engaging classroom environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and learning.
• Provide families with peace of mind through consistent communication and daily updates regarding their child's progress and experiences.
• Maintain a safe, healthy, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Collaborate with Licensed Preschool Teachers, fellow educators, families, and support staff to promote the success and well-being of each child.
• Support classroom routines, learning objectives, and child assessments in alignment with program expectations.
• Navigate the highs (first words and new milestones) and the lows (spilled milk and tough days) with patience, professionalism, and a smile.

Lead Teacher Requirements

Candidates must meet the qualifications required to serve as a Lead Teacher in a Vermont early childhood education setting and meet at least one of the following qualifications:

• 21 college credits in Early Childhood Education or a related field; OR
• Associate's Degree from an accredited college in Early Childhood Education or a related field; OR
• Completion of one of the following:
  • Registered Child Care Apprenticeship Program
  • Child Care Certificate from the Community College of Vermont
  • Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level 3 Certificate

What You'll Bring

• Experience working in a classroom setting with responsibility for a group of children.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education.
• Demonstrated success working collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A passion for supporting the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of young children.
• A desire to continue growing professionally within the field of early childhood education.
• The ability to build positive relationships with children, families, Licensed Preschool Teachers, and fellow educators.
• The ability to work collaboratively with Licensed Preschool Teachers and other team members to support children's learning and development.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as needed to support program operations.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to squat, kneel, sit on the floor, and actively engage with children throughout the day.
• Ability to effectively communicate with children and families while maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment.

Full-Time Benefits Include

• BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance
• Vision and Dental Expense Reimbursement
• 401(k) Employer Contributions and Match
• Paid Time Off
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Professional Development Training Hours
• On-site Fitness Center
• Discounted Gym Membership to The Edge
• On-site Café Serving Breakfast, Lunch, and Snacks
• On-site Health Clinic Exclusive to Employees and Their Families

Compensation is based on a variety of factors including skills, experience, and industry background. The range listed here represents our good-faith estimate for the role.

All full-time employment offers are contingent upon successfully completing a pre-employment drug screening and background check.