Preschool Teacher

About Early Alpine Academy

Early Alpine Academy is a play-based, relationship-driven early learning program located in the heart of downtown Bozeman. We serve children from infancy through preschool with consistent daily rhythms, a team that truly shows up, and a deep commitment to connection—between teachers and children, between families and caregivers, and within our teaching team itself.

Our classrooms and outdoor space are full of joyful play, hands-on exploration, and rich opportunities for social-emotional growth. Whether we’re stacking blocks, navigating big feelings, or getting messy in the sensory bin, we believe learning happens best when children feel safe, seen, and excited to be here. We work closely with Bozeman’s working families to create a warm, dependable partnership—and a daily experience that feels as good as it is developmentally sound.

About the Role

At Early Alpine Academy, Lead Teachers are the heartbeat of the classroom. In our Pre-K program, the Lead Teacher sets the tone each day—bringing a steady presence, deep curiosity, and a commitment to developmentally respectful learning.

This role is ideal for someone who loves guiding young children through playful exploration, leads with emotional awareness, and thrives in a collaborative environment. As Lead, you partner closely with your Assistant Teacher and floaters to create a space that feels safe, joyful, and full of wonder. You’ll guide the rhythm of the day, implement our Experience Curriculum with intention, and build trusting relationships with both children and families.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Classroom Leadership & Culture

  • Create a classroom environment that feels warm, calm, and inviting

  • Establish daily rhythms that offer predictability, flow, and opportunity for exploration

  • Set clear expectations for behavior and model emotional regulation throughout the day

  • Reinforce a culture of kindness, curiosity, and inclusivity for all learners

  Curriculum & Learning Engagement

  • Use the Experience Curriculum to plan and facilitate small and large group activities

  • Prepare engaging invitations to play that reflect children’s interests and developmental needs

  • Rotate classroom materials weekly to promote exploration and creativity

  • Track developmental progress and adapt instruction accordingly

  Family Communication & Relationships

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for families in your classroom

  • Share timely updates through Brightwheel and in-person conversations

  • Proactively communicate about changes, concerns, or celebrations

  • Partner with the Assistant Director on any sensitive or ongoing family concerns

  Team Collaboration

  • Lead and support your classroom team through clear expectations, daily check-ins, and modeling

  • Offer coaching and feedback to Assistant Teachers and Floaters with kindness and clarity

  • Communicate with leadership about classroom needs, goals, and growth areas

  • Create a culture of shared ownership and reflective practice

  Documentation, Compliance & Oversight

  • Complete weekly lesson plans, curriculum logs, and classroom documentation

  • Ensure at least one observation is logged weekly per student, with 90%+ classroom coverage

  • Track ratios, attendance, and incidents in alignment with licensing and school policies

  • Maintain safety, cleanliness, and compliance standards throughout the day
    

Requirements

• Meets state requirements for early childhood educators, including eligibility for Montana Registry Level 3, the ability to pass background checks, and current (or soon-to-be) CPR/First Aid certification

• Experience working with young children in a group setting

• Physically able to lift, carry, and engage with children throughout the day

• Dependable, punctual, and able to work a consistent 8 AM–4 PM schedule

• Strong communicator—kind, clear, and comfortable with both children and adults

• Calm, flexible, and steady in a busy classroom environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-time, hourly role starting at $28 (Additional pay with ECP Registry Levels)

• Paid time off (PTO) starting at 10 days per year, increasing with tenure (15 days after 2 years, 20 days after 5)

• 5 paid sick days annually (in addition to PTO)

• Paid holidays

• 401(k) with employer match – you contribute 6%, and we match 4.5%

• 12 weeks paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child

• Health insurance with employer contribution

• Dental, Vision, Voluntary Life & AD&D, and Accident insurance options

• Health Savings Account (HSA) availability

• Employer-paid Life and AD&D insurance

• Employer-paid Long-Term Disability coverage

• Sabbatical program with a cash bonus and extra time off at 5, 10, and 15 years

• Subsidized childcare at our center