Lead Teacher

Role summary

Lead Teacher is a full-time role at Early Connections Learning Centers in Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States (on-site). Posted 2026-10-20. Salary: USD 22–25 per hour. Experience level: 0-2. No degree required.

Job title

Lead Teacher

Company

Early Connections Learning Centers

Location

Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States

Work arrangement

on-site

Employment type

full-time

Category

Software Engineering

Salary

USD 22–25 per hour

Experience level

0-2

Degree required

No

Date posted

2026-10-20

Job description

$2,000 New Lead Teacher BONUS!

Position : Lead Teacher

Reports to: Center Director

Job Classification : Full-time; non-exempt

Schedule : 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday (with periodic evenings or weekends), 8- or 10- hour shifts

Wage Range : $22.48- $25.13 hourly (dependent on qualifications)

This position has multiple vacancies in varying locations .

This position will remain open until filled.

ABOUT EARLY CONNECTIONS LEARNING CENTERS

Early Connections Learning Centers is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high quality early care and education for ALL children. Every position works in coordination to achieve this mission. Since 1897, our work to provide high quality early childhood education has positively impacted thousands of children and families in the Pikes Peak region. Our nationally accredited programs help build a strong foundation for young children to be happy and successful in learning and life.

JOB SUMMARY

The Lead Teacher plays a vital role in shaping each child’s early learning experience through intentional teaching, creativity, and compassion. This position leads classroom planning and implementation for children’s daily activities, fostering an environment where curiosity and connection can thrive. The Lead Teacher models best practices in early childhood education, supports teachers, and partners with families to ensure every child’s individual needs are met.

As a member of the Early Connections teaching team, the Lead Teacher contributes to our mission by creating joyful, developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with our curriculum, values, and quality standards. This position is ideal for an educator who values collaboration, continuous learning, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on children, families, and our community.

Full-time, non exempt position with 8- or 10-hour shifts available.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Create a joyful, engaging classroom where every child feels valued, and inspired to explore. Plan and implement meaningful learning experiences that support each child’s growth across all developmental domains.

Model excellence in early education practice by integrating play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Teaching Strategies GOLD, Colorado Early Learning Guidelines, and NAEYC standards.

Ensure a safe, healthy, and organized environment — indoors and outdoors — that invites curiosity while meeting all Colorado Department of Human Services licensing regulations, NAEYC accreditation standards, and Early Connections health and safety policies.

Lead with partnership and purpose. Collaborate with Co-Teachers to share responsibilities, guide classroom routines, and build teamwork rooted in trust, communication, and mutual respect.

Foster strong, respectful relationships with families. Communicate weekly and through conferences to celebrate milestones, discuss progress, and strengthen each family’s understanding of their child’s development and school readiness.

Honor inclusion and diversity. Create a classroom that celebrates the individuality of every child and family—welcoming different cultures, languages, abilities, and family structures with enthusiasm and respect.

Document learning and growth. Maintain accurate attendance, meal, and assessment records; contribute to NAEYC Accreditation documentation and GOLD data collection in partnership with families.

Engage families and community. Coordinate family events, classroom celebrations, and ongoing opportunities for parents to participate in their child’s early learning journey.

Uphold professionalism and confidentiality. Communicate openly and respectfully with colleagues, families, and community partners, representing Early Connections’ values in all interactions.

SECONDARY DUTIES

Build trusting relationships with children, families, and colleagues, maintaining professional boundaries while fostering warmth, respect, and open communication.

Collaborate across departments to ensure that each child and family receives comprehensive support—partnering with colleagues in nutrition, behavioral health, enrollment, and administration as needed.

Communicate with honesty and empathy. Share relevant information promptly with co-workers and supervisors to support children’s safety, well-being, and learning continuity.

Protect confidentiality. Handle information about children, families, and staff with discretion and in alignment with Early Connections policies and ethical standards.

Demonstrate professionalism and positivity in every interaction, modeling Early Connections’ values of respect, excellence, professionalism, and honoring our legacy.

Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. Participate in team meetings, trainings, and reflective practices that strengthen teaching quality and professional growth.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development or Bachelor’s Degree in an unrelated field plus > 6 credit hours in ECE and 9 months classroom experience; 24+ ECE credits required for Head Start/Early Head Start classrooms

Documented experience teaching in the Early Childhood Education field working with children (birth to age six)

Demonstrated passion for working with children and a strong professional foundation in the principles, theories, and best practices of early childhood education, including care for infants through school-age youth

Prior to employment, candidates must pass federal and state criminal and Colorado Department of Early Childhood background checks, pre-employment drug screen, physical, and verification of employment, education and/or credentials and, by position, valid driver’s license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Position requires physical mobility, with or without reasonable accommodation if requested, to perform essential functions of the job, in