Lead Daycare Teacher

Rock Bridge Preschool is seeking a caring, dependable, and enthusiastic Daycare Teacher to provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Teachers are responsible for the daily care, supervision, and education of children while maintaining compliance with Missouri licensing regulations and our center's policies and procedures.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide attentive, compassionate care to children at all times.
• Create a warm, welcoming, and positive classroom environment.
• Plan and implement age-appropriate educational activities that support children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Supervise children during indoor play, outdoor play, meals, rest time, and transitions.
• Encourage positive behavior through consistent guidance and redirection.
• Maintain constant awareness of children's safety and well-being.
• Assist children with toileting, handwashing, dressing, and other self-help skills as needed.
• Foster children's independence while providing appropriate support.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and required classroom documentation.
• Communicate professionally with families regarding their child's daily activities, progress, and any concerns.
• Keep classrooms clean, organized, and sanitized according to health and safety standards.
• Follow all state licensing regulations, health requirements, and center policies.
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Work collaboratively with coworkers to maintain a positive team environment.
• Report any accidents, injuries, illnesses, or suspected child abuse or neglect immediately according to center procedures and state regulations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Must be 18 years or older
• Previous experience working with young children is preferred.
• Must pass all required background screenings.
• Must complete required Missouri child care trainings.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry children weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Sit on the floor, kneel, bend, squat, and move quickly throughout the day.
• Supervise children indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

Employees are expected to:

• Arrive on time and prepared for each scheduled shift.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and coworkers.
• Dress appropriately for working with young children.
• Treat every child, family, and coworker with kindness, patience, and respect.
• Follow all safety procedures and licensing requirements.
• Maintain a positive, professional attitude that reflects the values of Rock Bridge Preschool.

Benefits may include:

• Paid holidays (eligibility requirements apply)
• Paid sick leave/PTO (based on employment status)
• Professional development opportunities
• Supportive team environment

Rock Bridge Preschool is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace for employees and families.