The Cullman Child Development Center is excited to open a new location at the Harrison House Childcare Center in Cooperstown in Fall 2026. With an established center in Sidney, this is a unique opportunity to help shape a high-quality early childhood education environment. The role offers strong support for ongoing professional development and educational growth. Interviews will be conducted throughout Summer and into Fall 2026.
The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom for an assigned group of children (Infant, Toddler, or Pre-School, depending on placement). This role takes primary responsibility for the classroom, supervises Assistant Teachers, and partners closely with families.
- Plan and lead a developmentally appropriate curriculum for the assigned age group, aligned with NYS Early Learning Guidelines
- Create a safe, clean, and welcoming classroom environment
- Supervise and mentor Assistant Teacher(s) assigned to the classroom
- Maintain required NYS OCFS staff-to-child ratios at all times
- Observe and document children's development; conduct family conferences and share progress regularly
- Communicate daily with families regarding their child's day, meals, naps, and milestones
- Maintain accurate attendance, incident, and health records as required by OCFS
- Participate in staff meetings, training, and curriculum planning sessions
- Help establish and maintain classroom routines, materials, and procedures
- Must meet NYS OCFS qualification requirements for an infant/toddler or preschool group teacher under 18 NYCRR Part 418-1, depending on classroom assignment — generally satisfied by a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential, an OCFS-recognized Early Childhood Certificate Program, an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development, or equivalent approved coursework and experience (exact pathway to be confirmed with OCFS)
- Prior lead teaching or significant assistant teaching experience in a licensed child care setting strongly preferred
- Strong understanding of age-appropriate child development and classroom management
- Current or ability to obtain OCFS-required health and safety training, CPR/First Aid certification, and background clearance (fingerprinting, Statewide Central Register check)
- Excellent communication skills with children, families, and colleagues
- Experience or familiarity with infant/child health needs is a bonus
- Minimum Education Level: Highschool Graduate or GED
- Preferred Education Level: CDA Credential
Apply Online here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScNS58ar3PUpUIQaBTfVGR4sCjaLYtwljf8nZLXcJLPDgF8kQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=112155378717206823725
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