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Head Early Childhood Educator (Lead Teacher)
Location:
Wurzelkinder, Crown Heights | Brooklyn, NY
Start Date: January 15, 2026
Description, Responsibilities, & Duties
Wurzelkinder is a progressive, mixed-age (2–5 y/o) German-immersion preschool in Brooklyn. Our approach is inspired by Co-Construction Theory, Froebel, and Reggio Emilia. We believe children thrive in environments where their voices matter, their ideas are valued, and learning emerges naturally from play, exploration, and relationships.
We offer full-day programming and aftercare, and our classrooms reflect a loving, joyful, interest-driven approach to early childhood education.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking an experienced, reflective Head Early Childhood Educator with:
- A strong background in progressive and interest-driven learning education
- The ability to lead a caring, intentional classroom
- A passion for fostering children’s curiosity, independence, and well-being
- A collaborative mindset and commitment to professional growth
Your Responsibilities
- Create a warm, safe, playful, and stimulating environment where children feel at home
- Encourage exploration and development across all domains (social-emotional, physical, cognitive, language, creative)
- Be a calm, grounded role model who upholds the dignity and rights of every child
- Observe and document children’s interests, strengths, and learning processes
- Lead daily classroom routines, instruction, and supervision
- Collaborate with your team to create emergent, interest-driven curriculum
- Write professional observations and standardized assessments with thoughtfulness and care
- Reflect on your own practice and show initiative in ongoing professional growth
- Adapt your curriculum to meet individual needs, learning styles, and developmental stages
- Communicate with families openly, compassionately, and respectfully
- Support your team, care for your environment, and contribute to a positive community culture
Minimum Qualifications/Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood / Childhood
Salary & Benefits
$52,000 – $59,250 a year – Full-time
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid sick leave
- 401(k)
- Monthly DoorDash meal stipend
Application Procedures
Please send a cover letter and resume to luisa@wurzelkinderbrooklyn.com
Program Description
Wurzelkinder is a progressive, mixed-age (2–5 y/o) German-immersion preschool in Brooklyn. Our approach is inspired by Co-Construction Theory, Froebel, and Reggio Emilia. We believe children thrive in environments where their voices matter, their ideas are valued, and learning emerges naturally from play, exploration, and relationships.
We offer full-day programming and aftercare, and our classrooms reflect a loving, joyful, interest-driven approach to early childhood education.
Contact Info
Wurzelkinder
Luisa Gessler
luisa@wurzelkinderbrooklyn.com