Lead Teacher- KinderBridge

Founded in 1974, Morrow Memorial Preschool (MMPS) is a non-profit preschool school in Maplewood, NJ, which has served the community for over 50 years. We provide a nurturing, co-operative, play-based environment for nearly 100 students across various age groups from 2.5 to 5 years old. We offer 5 core classes with additional enrichment opportunities. Our philosophy centers on granting children the freedom to explore, resolve conflicts, and develop a lifelong desire to learn within a supportive community of educators and parents.

The Lead Teacher for Kinder Bridge is an enthusiastic educator who manages a developmentally appropriate, play-based classroom specifically designed for children aged 5 years old. Partners with the Kinder Bridge Assistant Teacher to ensure this "bridge" year focuses on fostering the social stamina, intrinsic confidence, and emotional readiness needed for success in full-day elementary school. Kinder Bridge hours are Monday through Thursday 8:00am-2:30pm and Friday 8:00am-1:00pm, September through June.

This role is an exceptional fit for educators at various stages of their professional journey:

• Rejoining the Workforce: We offer a supportive, collaborative community for those returning to education who value a predictable schedule and a nurturing school culture.
• Early-Career Mentorship: For those early in their teaching career, this position provides a unique opportunity to be mentored by a veteran group of educators within a structured, play-based environment.
• Professional Growth: You will be part of a team that values continuous learning, offering 20 hours of annual continuing education and school-funded certification renewals.

• Philosophy & Environment: Follows the MMPS purpose and philosophy by nurturing self-esteem and providing a supportive environment for exploration and conflict resolution.
• Curriculum Planning: Plans daily lessons supporting social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth.
• Inclusion: Uses materials that respect diversity in development, family composition, and cultural backgrounds.
• Classroom Management: Sets up interest centers (dramatic play, sensory, motor skills) and teaches students daily routines.
• Assessment: Monitors student progress and prepares documentation for parent/teacher conferences.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintains health and security standards, follows state-mandated reporting for child safety, and manages emergency procedure training for classroom volunteers.
• Administrative: Maintains student files, attendance, and incident reports; utilizes student information system for class information.
• Community: Fosters the MMPS Community by attending MMPS events including the Winter Festival, Open House, fundraising Soiree, and All-School Picnic.

• Expertise :
  Extensive knowledge of early childhood development and play-based educational practices.
• Soft Skills :
  Must be empathetic to student emotions and caregiver needs with an enthusiastic, engaging personality.
• Communication :
  Excellent writing and tech skills (Microsoft Office/Google Workspace, Canva) for documenting progress.
• Collaboration :
  Excels at working constructively with staff, caregivers, and the Director with sensitivity and professionalism.

• Credential: Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is required.
• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education is preferred.
• Experience: 2 plus years of early childhood experience preferred.
• Certifications: Child CPR and First Aid certification required; ability to pass a full background check.
• Salary range for this position is $34,000.00-$46,000.00 based on experience.
• Performance-based bonuses may be awarded at the sole discretion of the MMPS Board, based on school enrollment and individual performance evaluations.
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays.
• Summers off as our school is closed mid-June through August.

Morrow Memorial Preschool is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where all children and staff, regardless of race, cultural background, family composition, or developmental ability feel safe, supported, and respected.