Lead Preschool Teacher - OTR

Job Description Salary: $15-$18Gold-Rated Step Up to Quality | Full-Time | OTR Cincinnati OH 45214 | Benefits IncludedAbout Water Lily Learning CenterWater Lily Learning Center - OTR is a Gold-rated Step Up to Quality program in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Our preschool classrooms are intentional, inquiry-based learning communities where children develop school readiness, critical thinking, and social-emotional skills. Our credentialed educators implement the Creative Curriculum and align all instruction with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development Standards.Position SummaryThe Lead Preschool Teacher - OTR leads a preschool classroom at our OTR campus, serving children ages 3 to 5. You will design and deliver intentional curriculum, conduct child assessments, mentor assistant teachers, and maintain the highest standards of documentation and compliance in our Gold-rated program. Strong curriculum expertise, leadership presence, and family engagement skills are essential.Key ResponsibilitiesImplement the Creative Curriculum aligned with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development StandardsMaintain a clean, safe, and engaging preschool classroom that supports all developmental domainsConduct ongoing child assessments using Teaching Strategies GOLD; document and share developmental progress with OTR familiesBuild and maintain strong family relationships through regular updates, conferences, and responsive daily communicationMentor and lead assistant teachers; foster a collaborative, high-functioning OTR classroom teamEnsure full compliance with all Ohio DCY licensing requirements and Step Up to Quality Gold standardsEngage in paid professional development and maintain current knowledge of preschool best practicesMaintain all required documentation, assessment portfolios, and compliance recordsQualificationsAssociate or Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related fieldMinimum 3 years as a lead teacher in a licensed early childhood program with Step Up to Quality experienceCurrent CPR and First Aid certification required prior to working with childrenExpertise in Creative Curriculum implementation, child development, and preschool classroom leadershipProficiency in Brightwheel, Teaching Strategies GOLD, or equivalent platformStrong communication, organizational, and mentorship skillsMust meet all Ohio DCY employment eligibility requirements including applicable clearancesSchedule and CompensationFull-time, Monday through Friday$15-18/hr based on credentials and experienceHealth, dental, and retirement benefits includedPaid professional development and mentorshipHealth and Wellness Benefits:Health Insurance401(k) Retirement Savings PlanDentalVisionLife InsuranceLong-Term DisabilityShort-Term DisabilityNexGenEAP (Employee Assistance Program)Working Advantage (Employee Discount and Reward Program)Balance CareFinFit Financial WellnessCancer AdvocateLong-Term Care InsurancePay on DemandStaff Meetings:Monthly paid meetings11 Paid HolidaysPaid Time Off (PTO):Paid Professional DevelopmentWeekly PayEmployee Referral ProgramPlus MoreWhy Join Water Lily?Gold-rated Step Up to Quality a nationally respected standard of excellence in Cincinnati ECEPaid professional development, mentoring, and pathways for advancementMission-driven, team-oriented culture in a thriving Over-the-Rhine communityConsistent scheduling and leadership that prioritizes educator well-beingHelp shape the lives of children and prepare them for kindergarten success