Job Description
Preschool Lead Teacher / Co-Director (Full-Time)
Gan Yeladim Preschool – Portland, OR (97211)
2026–2027 School Year
Gan Yeladim, a warm and welcoming community preschool, is seeking a Lead Teacher / Co-Director for the 2026–27 school year. We offer a beautiful classroom environment, low staff-to-student ratios, and strong team support. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced educator with leadership skills to help shape and grow a nurturing early childhood program.
Position Overview
The Lead Teacher / Co-Director will play a key role in both classroom leadership and overall program administration. This includes serving as a Lead Teacher for a small class (ages 3–4) for part of the day, along with administrative oversight of all classrooms.
The ideal candidate brings a balance of educational expertise, operational experience, and a genuine passion for early childhood development.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Administration
• Implement preschool policies, schedules, procedures, and curriculum
• Ensure compliance with state licensing and accreditation standards
• Oversee daily operations, including staffing and scheduling
• Train, mentor, and evaluate teaching and support staff
• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities
• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and inclusive team environment
Curriculum & Program Development
• Design and oversee age-appropriate, play-based curriculum
• Monitor and assess children’s social and emotional development
• Adjust programming to support individual and group needs
Family & Community Engagement
• Build strong, positive relationships with children and families
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding student progress, events, and any concerns
Safety & Facility Management
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized school environment
• Develop and enforce health, safety, and emergency procedures
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
• Minimum of 3–5 years of teaching experience in early childhood education
• At least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role
• Strong understanding of child development and best practices in early education
• Current STARS registration (or ability to obtain) and up-to-date DEL requirements
• Up-to-date trainings and active ORO account
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Genuine love for and respect for children
Position Details
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
• Compensation: $35–$40 per hour (based on experience)
• Location: Portland, OR (97211) – in person
• Relocation: Candidates must be able to relocate prior to start date
Gan Yeladim is a Jewish preschool. Applicants do not need to be Jewish to apply. Jewish instruction is provided by the Program Manager.
To Apply
Please submit your resume along with references from prior early childhood education roles.
Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour
Work Location: In person