Full-Time Pre-K Teacher

State College Friends School seeks a full-time Pre-K Lead Teacher to serve as the instructional and organizational lead for one of our preschool classrooms. The Pre-K program is part of a small, mission-driven independent school serving children from early childhood through middle school.
The Lead Teacher is responsible for curriculum planning, classroom management, family communication, and collaboration with assistants and administrators to support the social, emotional, and academic development of young children.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily instruction for a pre-K classroom, aligned with developmentally appropriate practice
• Plan and implement curriculum that supports early literacy, numeracy, social development, and play-based learning
• Maintain a well-organized, safe, and responsive classroom environment
• Work in continuous partnership with an Assistant Teacher
• Observe, document, and assess student progress; prepare narrative reports
• Communicate regularly with families through conferences, written updates, and informal conversations
• Work collaboratively with the Preschool Director and other faculty
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school events
• Meet all applicable health, safety, and supervision requirements

Required qualifications

• Must meet at least one of the following:

Bachelor’s Degree Option: Degree in ECE, Child Development, Special Ed, Elementary Ed, or Human Services + 1 year of experience.
Bachelor’s Related Degree: Degree in any field + 30 credits in ECE/related field + 2 years of experience.
Associate Degree Option: Degree in ECE/related field + 3 years of experience.
Associate Related Degree: Degree in any field + 30 credits in ECE/related field + 4 years of experience.

And, also the following:

• Experience working with preschool-age children in a school or early learning setting
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small school environment
• Commitment to creating an inclusive, respectful, and developmentally responsive classroom

Preferred qualifications:

• Pennsylvania PK–4 certification
• Experience as a lead teacher or group supervisor in a preschool setting
• Background in inclusive education or special education
• Familiarity with play-based and inquiry-driven approaches to early childhood education

Employment details

• Full-time, salaried position
• Benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance, matched retirement contribution in second year, and tuition remission for eligible children
• Appointment is made annually through a Letter of Agreement

Employment at State College Friends School
Meaningful Work A Caring Community Progressive Ed. Rooted in Quaker Values

State College Friends School (SCFS) is a Pre-K–8 independent school in Pennsylvania committed to nurturing the intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual growth of children. Our teachers and staff are grounded in the Quaker testimonies of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship and work together to create a joyful, inquiry-driven, inclusive learning environment.

At SCFS, employees are valued as whole people. We support collaboration, reflective practice, professional growth, and deep partnership with families. Educators here join a community where relationships matter and where every child’s inner light is honored.

Employment at SCFS: What You Can Expect

Our Educational Community

Working at SCFS means joining a team of educators who believe:

• Children learn best through inquiry, exploration, and meaningful relationships
• Classrooms are communities where each child’s voice matters
• Social–emotional learning is foundational
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are essential to our mission
• Learning extends outdoors and across disciplines
• Faculty are trusted as reflective professionals

Professional Culture

SCFS employees experience a work environment where:

• Collaboration and shared leadership are encouraged
• Professional development is supported
• Teachers participate actively in school life and decision-making
• The Quaker practice of listening and seeking unity guides community interactions

Physical Requirements for Most Roles

All faculty and staff positions at SCFS may involve:

• Moving, bending, lifting up to 50 pounds
• Walking indoors and outdoors, sometimes at a quick pace
• Kneeling or squatting
• Sitting on the floor
• Standing for extended periods
• Climbing stairs

These expectations help ensure safe supervision of students in a dynamic environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

State College Friends School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, sex, personal appearance, genetic information, economic background, political affiliation, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

How to Apply

Applicants are also invited to submit:

• A cover letter
• Resume
• Three references

To: [email protected]

Pay: $39,000.00 - $62,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person