Development Associate Jobs in Dayton, OH (NOW HIRING)

Our Culture:

We take pride in maintaining a culture that values:

At On Purpose Academy & Mentoring Center, we strive for:

• Excellence: A commitment to quality and precision in everything we do.
• Community: A supportive and uplifting environment for students, families, and staff.
• Collaboration: Working together as a team to achieve the best outcomes for everyone.

About the Opportunity:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Preschool Teacher to join our highly-rated, community-centered 5-Star, Gold rated preschool program.

As a Lead Teacher, you will:

Provide high-quality instruction, mentor Assistant Teachers, foster student growth, and actively contribute to a nurturing and organized classroom environment for children ages 3–4 years.

If you are passionate about early childhood education, thrive in a collaborative setting, and are ready to make a lasting impact, we would love to meet you!

Key Responsibilities:

Instruction and Curriculum Implementation:

• Deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons to preschool children (ages 3–4) using FrogStreet.
• Differentiate instruction to meet individual learning styles, developmental levels, and diverse needs of students.
• Integrate social-emotional learning, literacy, numeracy, and exploration-based activities daily.

Leadership and Staff Development:

• Mentor, support, and provide ongoing training to the Assistant Teacher in instructional techniques, classroom management, student engagement, organization, and documentation.
• Co-plan weekly and monthly lesson plans, ensuring activities are aligned with learning objectives and best practices.
• Collaborate with our community partners (Preschool Promise and HeadStart) to deliver high quality instruction.

 Assessment and Progress Monitoring:

• Conduct weekly formal and informal observations of student progress in Cognitive Tool Box.
• Complete observation documentation both in written form and through online assessment tools as required.
• Utilize data to inform instruction and intervention practices, promoting best outcomes for each child.

Family Engagement:

• Maintain consistent, positive communication with parents and guardians regarding student achievements, milestones, and areas for growth.
• Prepare and participate in Quarterly Parent-Teacher Conferences, newsletters, and classroom updates.
• Support parents in logging In-kind donations.

Classroom Management and Environment:

• Establish and maintain a safe, organized, and stimulating learning environment.
• Implement effective classroom routines, procedures, and positive behavior strategies that foster respect, responsibility, and community.
• Maintain compliance with state licensing standards, health and safety policies, and accreditation guidelines.

Professional Collaboration:

• Attend and actively participate in weekly staff meetings, coaching sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Collaborate with the preschool team to support program goals, center-wide initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts.

Required Qualifications:

• MANDATORY: Ohio Professional Registry CPL Level 3 or higher.
• MANDATORY: Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent coursework in child development.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2+ years of direct teaching experience in a preschool, early learning center, or related childcare setting.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and coaching skills.
• Passion for working with young children and dedication to supporting their academic, emotional, and social development.
• Ability to create strong rapport with children, families, and colleagues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain a clean, structured, and inviting classroom environment.

Commitment to ongoing professional growth and learning

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
• Experience working in a high-quality preschool, Head Start, Step Up To Quality, or licensed childcare program
• Knowledge of social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and positive behavior support strategies
• Experience using curriculum platforms such as FrogStreet, Creative Curriculum, or similar evidence-based models
• Strong classroom management skills with the ability to create a nurturing, engaging, and structured learning environment
• Experience conducting child observations, assessments, and parent-teacher conferences
• Ability to collaborate with families, specialists, and support staff to meet the needs of diverse learners
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain upon hire
• Bilingual abilities are a plus
• Passion for innovation, creativity, and helping children learn through play, exploration, and relationship-building

• Paid Leave
• Retirement Plan
• Tuition Assistance
• Child Care Discount
• Professional Development
• Competitive pay based on education, experience, and credentials
• Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) opportunities
• Supportive leadership team that values creativity, collaboration, and innovation
• Opportunities for advancement into leadership, coaching, or administrative roles
• Professional development, training, and continuing education support
• Family-oriented and positive workplace culture
• Access to classroom resources, curriculum support, and coaching to help teachers succeed
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families every day
• Collaborative environment with mental and behavioral health supports integrated into the program
• Employee appreciation events, recognition initiatives, and team-building activities
• Opportunity to work in a mission-driven organization committed to equity, excellence, and community impact
• Consistent daytime schedule with a focus on work-life balance and team support