Role: Lead Preschool Teacher

Location: Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Long Island City, Queens

Salary Range: $50,000-$75,000 /year

Reports to: Head of School

Schedule: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm during the school year (summer and school breaks off)

About us:

New York Preschool & Kids Club is an early childhood education and enrichment program serving modern New York families through our combination of enrichment classes and preschool education. With multiple schools across New York City, NYPKC blends a research-backed, play-based curriculum with a fun and supportive environment, delivering a full family experience for children and parents.

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated Lead Preschool Teacher to join our mission of giving New York City’s youngest learners a joyful, solid foundation for lifelong learning. In this role, you’ll be the leader of an inclusive, nurturing 2’s, 3’s, or 4’s classroom, utilizing either the Creative Curriculum or Tools of the Mind Curriculum to guide students through a journey of intentional play. More than just a teacher, you’ll be the architect of a culture that fosters inquiry, independence, and social-emotional intelligence, and inspires children to become lifelong learners.

What You’ll Do

• The Architect of Learning: Use the Creative Curriculum (DOE) or Tools of the Mind Curriculum (Private) as your foundation to build engaging, play-based, experiential lessons that spark curiosity in preschoolers ages 2, 3, or 4.
• The Safety Anchor: Ensure every student’s health and safety is the top priority. You’ll maintain a "safe-to-fail" environment where children feel secure enough to take risks and explore their world.
• The Developmental Guide: Support "the whole child"- physically, cognitively, and emotionally, all while helping them navigate big feelings and big milestones.
• The Family Partner: Build trust with parents and caregivers through daily updates, sharing the successes and challenges of their child’s day, and building a bridge between school and home.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the essential nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be all responsibilities or qualifications of the job.

What We’re Looking For

• Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in ECE or a related field (or currently enrolled) required
• Certification: A NYS Early Childhood Initial or Permanent Certification (B-2 or 1-6) strongly preferred
• Study Plan: If not certified, you must be on a New York State-approved Study Plan (be studying toward a BA or MA in ECE with at least 90 ECE credits OR an Associate’s degree in ECE).
• Experience: 2+ years of lead teaching experience in Pre-K (2-4 year olds) or Kindergarten.
• Special Edge: Be a passionate teacher and lifelong learner!

Physical exam and background checks are required for this position.

What Success Looks Like

• Your students are hitting key developmental milestones and gaining the executive function skills needed to become confident, independent "masters of their own behavior."
• Parents and caregivers feel deeply connected to their child’s day-to-day journey, trusting you as a primary partner in their child’s early education.
• You’ve successfully translated the Creative Curriculum or Tools of the Mind Curriculum into vibrant, daily experiences that spark genuine curiosity and "lightbulb" moments.
• You are a steady, inspiring presence within the NYPKC community at your location, working seamlessly with the Head of School and other instructors to maintain the highest standards of safety and collaboration.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• The Time Off: A 10-month school schedule with summers and school breaks off to recharge.
• Career Investment: Tuition Reimbursement Program to help you reach your next educational goal.
• Comprehensive Care: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, plus a 401(k) Plan with Company Contribution
• The Extras: Commuter programs, discounted fitness memberships, and more!

Physical Demands:

The role involves standing, walking, sitting, constant movement, and occasional climbing. The ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds is required. Specific sensory abilities include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and adjustment of focus.

Inclusivity and Diversity:

NY Preschool & Kids Club is committed to an inclusive and diverse community. We celebrate differences, leading with kindness and respect. We are an equal opportunity employer, prohibiting discrimination based on various factors.

Accommodations:

The NY Preschool & Kids Club complies with ADA requirements. If you need accommodation in completing the application, please contact interview@nykidsclub.com.