Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced, nurturing, and confident Junior Kindergarten Lead Teacher to join our close-knit school community. This position is ideal for a teacher who understands the unique bridge year between preschool and kindergarten and can thoughtfully support both academic readiness and social-emotional growth.

The Lead Teacher will be responsible for planning and implementing a balanced, developmentally appropriate program that includes early literacy, math, hands-on learning, and purposeful play. Just as important, this role requires someone who can build strong relationships with children, communicate effectively with parents, and collaborate well with colleagues.

Our school values warmth, consistency, and professionalism. We are looking for a teacher who can lead a classroom with both structure and joy—someone who is organized, dependable, and genuinely enjoys working with 5- to 6-year-olds as they grow in confidence and independence.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead a developmentally appropriate Junior Kindergarten program that supports early literacy, math, and social-emotional growth through a balance of structured learning and purposeful play
• Create a warm, organized, and engaging classroom environment where children feel safe, confident, and excited to learn
• Establish clear routines and expectations while guiding children in developing independence, self-regulation, and positive peer relationships
• Work closely with an assistant teacher to ensure a smooth, well-managed classroom and a positive team dynamic
• Communicate regularly and professionally with parents, including sharing updates, addressing concerns, and building strong relationships
• Observe and assess student progress to inform instruction and support each child’s individual development
• Collaborate with fellow teachers and administration as part of a supportive, team-oriented staff
• Prepare students for a successful transition to Kindergarten by fostering readiness skills and confidence
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-prepared classroom environment

Requirements

• Experience as a lead teacher in a pre-K, kindergarten, or elementary-age classroom (required)
• Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (preferred)
• Experience in a private school or play-based program (preferred)
• Strong understanding of child development, especially for ages 5-6
• Ability to balance structure and warmth in classroom management
• Excellent communication skills with both children and adults
• Organized, dependable, and able to take initiative
• A collaborative, positive attitude and willingness to be part of a close-knit school community

About Beach Day School

Beach Day School is a small, private, faith-based preschool located near the Oceanfront in Virginia Beach. We serve approximately 100 students, and our staff of 20 is deeply committed to our mission: “to instill in children kindness, confidence, and a love of learning.” Our curriculum is both academic and center-based, grounded in the belief that young children learn best through play, exploration, and discovery. Beach Day School is located within First Presbyterian Church and serves families from beach community neighborhoods including the North End, Bay Colony, Shadowlawn, and Croatan. We are seeking individuals who demonstrate warmth, a nurturing spirit, classroom experience, and a strong understanding of early childhood development.

Connections working at Beach Day School