Early Childhood Lead Teacher (EEC)

Salem, MA

Join Our Mission to Make a Difference in Young Lives 

At Pathways, we believe that to teach is to touch lives. If you’re passionate about early childhood education and want to work in a mission-driven environment that values your professional growth and well-being, we invite you to become part of our team. 

We are currently seeking a Lead Preschool Teacher who is enthusiastic, nurturing, and committed to supporting the development of young children. The ideal candidate brings a solid background in early childhood education, a deep understanding of child development, and experience creating engaging and supportive classroom environments. 

LocationSalem, MA

Schedule – this position is scheduled for 40 hours per week, 43 weeks for the 2025/2026 school year with a planned reduction in force at the end of the school year (June, 2026)Scheduled hours and weeks are based on need and subject to change, including reduction in force. 

Rate - starting at $22.50 based on education and experience

What will you do?

Provide oversight and management to assure classroom operates according to best practice and standards set by Department of EEC and Pathways for Children Agency policy and procedures 

Supervises and engage with others working in the classroom, including classroom staff, volunteers, and interns 

Provide guidance and direction for classroom activities, schedules, routines 

Develop and implement an individualized curriculum and guidance strategies for each child and the class based on the school readiness goals of Pathways for Children 

Implement and ensure positive guidance strategies for children consistent with Pathways for Children Behavior Management Plan 

Provide appropriate supervision of children by sight and sound to ensure a healthy and safe learning environment 

Ensure that the learning environment is clean, organized and that all materials are developmentally appropriate for children 

Why Work With Us? 

At Pathways, we don’t just nurture children and families—we invest in our teachers. We offer: 

  • Professional development and training opportunities 
  • Clear pathways for career advancement 
  • A collaborative, supportive workplace culture 

We are proud to center our work around the core values of respect, trust, collaboration, and opportunity. We believe in open communication and fostering strong relationships among our staff, families, and communities. 

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact and grow your career in early childhood education, we’d love to hear from you.  

WHAT DO YOU NEED?

Required 

Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, or a related field with equivalent coursework; and experience as a preschool teacher  

Preferred 

Bilingual preferred in languages that represent our student and family population (Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian-Creole)  

Other Requirements 

  • Successfully complete an employment physical and proof of vaccination
  • Pass CORI, SORI, DCF, and fingerprinting 
  • Possess valid MA driver’s license and proof of auto insurance and acceptable driving record 

WHAT DO WE OFFER? 

  • Internal growth! We often hire from within to help our employees reach their greatest potential 
  • On-going training and Professional Development provided free of charge, and tuition reimbursement 
  • Generous Heath and Dental Insurances, Life and Long Term Disability Insurances 
  • Retirement Plans such as 401 (K) and ROTH – with employer match upon meeting eligibility and vesting requirements 
  • Earned Time Off (sick, personal, and vacation time) 

Pathways for Children provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.