Lead Childcare Worker (School-Administered Program)

Location: Halls Elementary School/Lauderdale County Schools

Reports To: Program Coordinator / School Principal

Job Summary

The Lead Childcare Worker is responsible for the daily operation of an individual classroom or group within a school-administered childcare program. This role ensures the safety, well-being, and developmental progress of children while strictly adhering to the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) Standards for School-Administered Child Care. The Lead Worker provides high-quality supervision and implements age-appropriate activities that foster a positive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

In alignment with TN Chapter 0520-12-01, the Lead Childcare Worker will:

1. Regulatory Compliance & Safety

• Maintain strict compliance with all TDOE health and safety standards, including proper supervision ratios and emergency procedures.
• Ensure the physical environment is safe, clean, and organized according to state health and fire safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate daily attendance records and sign-in/sign-out logs.
• Monitor and document any unusual incidents or injuries, reporting them immediately to the Program Coordinator.
• Maintain accurate and up to date child and staff records.

2. Curriculum & Program Implementation

• Plan and implement a daily schedule that includes a balance of quiet/active, individual/group, and indoor/outdoor activities.
• Develop age-appropriate lesson plans that align with the Tennessee Early Learning Developmental Standards (TN ELDS) or school-age frameworks.
• Foster a developmentally appropriate environment that encourages social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth.

3. Student Supervision & Guidance

• Provide constant and active supervision of children at all times; ensure no child is left unattended.
• Utilize positive behavior management techniques that respect the dignity of the child and align with school district policies.
• Assist children with personal hygiene and self-care routines as needed.
• Adhere to all nap/rest and feeding guidelines.

4. Communication & Professionalism

• Maintain professional and open communication with parents regarding their child’s progress and daily experiences.
• Collaborate with school staff and administration to ensure program continuity.
• Participate in required professional development and maintain a record of the minimum annual training hours required by the State of Tennessee.

Qualifications & Requirements

Note: Requirements are based on the TN State Board of Education rules for Lead Teachers/Workers in school-administered programs.

• Education: High School Diploma (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred).
• Certification: Must possess or be willing to obtain a CDA, CPR and First Aid Certification within the first 90 days of employment.
• Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a licensed or school-administered childcare setting.
• Background Clearance: Must pass a criminal background check (fingerprinting) and health screening as required by TDOE.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 40 lbs, stand for long periods, and engage in physical play with children.

Core Competencies

• Deep understanding of Tennessee child care licensing regulations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for child development.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail regarding documentation.

Application Standards

This position is subject to the standards set forth in the Tennessee School-Administered Child Care Programs manual. All employees must demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the highest level of care and educational support for students.