Preschool Lead Teacher (Toddler & Threes) in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey at ElevatEd

Nature-Based Early Childhood Program | Full-Time | $20–$23/hour

Are you an early childhood educator who believes children and teachers learn best through curiosity, exploration, relationships, and play?

Our warm, collaborative preschool community is seeking a passionate and reflective Lead Teacher for our shared learning community of toddlers. We are a teaching school where teachers and children learn together, and where educators are encouraged to bring their own interests, creativity, and love of learning into the classroom every day.

Located on a beautiful wooded campus, our program uses nature and the environment as an extension of the classroom. We value child-centered learning, meaningful relationships, collaboration, and professional growth. Many of our educators have been with us for more than ten years because they are supported, respected, and inspired in their work.

About Our School
We are fortunate to have a gorgeous outdoor environment that allows children to explore, investigate, and learn through direct experiences in nature. Our approach draws inspiration from Reggio Emilia, Loose Parts, emergent curriculum, and play-based learning.
In our classrooms:

• Children’s interests help shape the learning experience
• Teachers partner with children in discovery and exploration
• Collaboration, reflection, and documentation are part of daily practice
• Educators are encouraged to continue learning and growing professionally

Our staff loves to learn together, share ideas, and collaborate with one another and with ECE experts around the world.

Position Overview
We are looking for educators who are thoughtful, flexible, observant, and excited to partner with young children in their learning.

Successful teachers in our program:

• Create nurturing, engaging classroom environments
• Observe children closely and respond thoughtfully to their interests and needs
• Pivot and adapt throughout the day based on the energy and engagement of the classroom
• Collaborate closely with co-teachers and leadership
• Find joy in children’s discoveries and celebrate growth every day
• Bring their own passions and curiosity into the classroom community

Qualifications

• Passion for relationship-based, child-centered learning
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Ability to be flexible, reflective, and responsive in the classroom
• Degree in Early Childhood Education, preferred, and eligible for higher compensation
• Interest in nature-based education, emergent curriculum, or Reggio-inspired practices is a plus

Compensation & Benefits

• $20–$23/hour, commensurate with experience
• Higher compensation available for candidates with a degree in Early Childhood Education
• Full-time, 40-week position
• Professional development and career-building opportunities
• Supportive leadership and collaborative teaching environment
• Free temple membership for full-time employees

Requirements

• Background check required
• Fingerprinting required

Why Join Us?
This is a school where educators are valued as professionals, learners, and collaborators. We believe teaching young children is meaningful, important work, and we invest in creating an environment where teachers feel supported, inspired, and connected.

If you are looking for a school community where you can grow professionally, learn alongside children, and work with deeply committed educators in a beautiful natural setting, we’d love to hear from you.