Lead Teacher 4-5's and Enrichment

Chesterfield, MO, US, 63005-1631

Job Summary

The Lead Teacher, in collaboration with the Director, holds primary responsibility for the classroom and partners with an assistant or associate teacher when applicable. The role supports the holistic development of children in line with the “Learn through Play” philosophy of Ascension Early Childhood Center (The Little School), integrating Catholic teachings into daily activities.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Plan and implement curriculum addressing social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual growth.

  • Prepare the classroom environment and ensure diverse, age-appropriate learning experiences.

  • Foster child independence, choice-making, and group or individual engagement.

  • Reinforce developmental goals and support language acquisition.

  • Model respectful communication, using calm and encouraging guidance.

  • Promote conflict resolution and emotional expression through positive behavioral techniques.

  • Ensure a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom atmosphere.

Job Responsibilities

Responsible for managing classroom operations and supporting child development in collaboration with assistant or associate teachers. Designs and implements a play-based curriculum aligned with Ascension Early Childhood Center’s philosophy and Catholic teachings. Promotes growth in social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual areas.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Plan and deliver age-appropriate, play-based curriculum.

  • Prepare and maintain a safe, engaging classroom environment.

  • Support children's independence, communication, and conflict resolution.

  • Foster respectful, inclusive, and positive interactions.

  • Use proactive guidance and behavior management strategies.

Job Requirements

1.      Has knowledge of the Catholic Faith, supports and practices the teachings of the Catholic Church.

2.      Is willing to consider the education of the children and their parents as a way of serving the church.

3.      Has knowledge of what constitutes a sound educational program for young children (ages and  stages), which recognizes children’s needs at the social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual  levels.

4.      Has a warm and friendly personality and recognizes each person to be a special and unique human  being.

5.      Has a genuine desire to work with children and keep the lines of communication open with their  parents.

6.      Is able to work with co-professionals in planning and implementing educational programs. 

7.      Expresses a desire to continue professional growth by reading, studying, and attending conferences.   8.  Presents an appropriate and professional image (manner, dress, written and verbal communication.)  9.  Is punctual.

Experience the Difference. MAKE a difference.

Rooted in the love of Jesus Christ, our schools are safe, welcoming communities where teachers are supported, and children are nurtured to grow and reach their full potential through rigorous academics and consistently high expectations, and faith-based service. 

Catholic Education in our region dates back more than 200 years. Today, our parish and archdiocesan preschool, elementary and high schools serve more than 30,000 students in St. Louis and 10 surrounding Missouri counties.