Job Description

Pre-K Lead Teacher (Universal Pre-K / Pre-K 4s) – Build Confidence & Kindergarten Readiness

At Magical Beginnings, our Pre-K classrooms are where children connect the dots—growing their confidence, independence, and love of learning as they prepare for kindergarten. We’re looking for a warm, organized Pre-K Lead Teacher who brings structure, creativity, and strong instructional practice to the classroom while leading with care.

If you’re passionate about school readiness, enjoy creating engaging learning experiences, and value being part of a supportive, collaborative team, we’d love to meet you.

What Makes This Role Special

• A classroom where care comes first and every child is supported as an individual
• A team that collaborates, communicates, and shows up for one another
• A program that blends strong academics with play, curiosity, and a little magic

What You'll Need to Succeed:

Required Education and Experience

• Minimum of 9 college credits in Early Childhood Education (required for NYS OCFS Group Teacher qualification)
• 2+ years of experience in a preschool/pre-k classroom
• Strong understanding of school readiness, classroom management, and child development
• Experience with curriculum planning and child assessment tools
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Willingness to complete all OCFS required trainings

Preferred Credentials

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• NYS Teacher Certification (Birth–Grade 2) or working toward certification (strongly preferred for UPK classrooms)
A Few More Details
• Availability to work 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday
• Ability to spend extended periods of time on the floor with the children
• Ability to lift children and supplies within the classroom, up to 50lbs
• Ability to stand up to 90% of the workday
• Attentiveness, strong time management, and a team-focused mindset

What You'll Do:

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, standards-aligned curriculum (including NYS Pre-K/UPK expectations, if applicable)
• Support early literacy, math, and social-emotional development
• Create a structured, engaging classroom that promotes independence and positive behavior
• Lead daily routines, small group instruction, and whole group activities
• Supervise and mentor assistant teachers
• Maintain ongoing child assessments, observations, and documentation
• Build strong partnerships with families through consistent communication
• Ensure full compliance with NYS OCFS (and UPK, if applicable) regulations and center policies

What Magical Beginnings offers you:

• Paid sick time
• 13 paid holidays*, plus a guaranteed paid week-long winter break
• Paid snow days and vacation time*
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance*
• Long-term disability
• Company-paid life insurance with additional voluntary coverage
• Parental leave
• Child care discount
• Weekly pay and direct deposit
• Referral and enrollment bonuses
• Classroom tablets
• A budget for classroom supplies
• Paid classroom planning time
• Free coffee and tea
• Teachers’ lounge and break room
• Mentor program
• Teacher appreciation events
• Team building activities
• Holiday parties and seasonal events
• School community outreach projects

*Available to full-time employees only

About Magical Beginnings
Magical Beginnings Learning Centers is a growing network of early childhood schools dedicated to creating nurturing, engaging, and joyful learning environments. We value collaboration, kindness, and continuous improvement—and we support our team members with a positive culture, competitive benefits, and opportunities to grow.
Magical Beginnings is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to be a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. All employment is based on qualifications, merit, and business need. Magical Beginnings does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, age, marital status, pregnancy, nationality, physical or mental disability, medical​​​ condition, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.