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.