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Preschool Teacher Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Vivvi Early Learning

Head Teacher

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... Preschool Teacher, Pre-K Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, Child Care Teacher, Infant Teacher, Toddler Teacher, ECE Lead Teacher, Classroom Teacher, Alabama DHR, Child Care Licensing, Classroom ...

Vivvi Early Learning

Head Teacher

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... Preschool Teacher, Pre-K Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, Child Care Teacher, Infant Teacher, Toddler Teacher, ECE Lead Teacher, Classroom Teacher, Alabama DHR, Child Care Licensing, Classroom ...

Vivvi Early Learning

Head Teacher

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... Preschool Teacher, Pre-K Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, Child Care Teacher, Infant Teacher, Toddler Teacher, ECE Lead Teacher, Classroom Teacher, Alabama DHR, Child Care Licensing, Classroom ...

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All JobsPreschool Teacher JobsPreschool Teacher Jobs in Decatur, AL

Preschool Teacher information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$9

$16

$24

How much do preschool teacher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for preschool teacher in Decatur, AL is $16.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a preschool teacher?

Preschool teachers are educators who work with young children, typically ages 3 to 5, to help them develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills before they begin kindergarten. They create a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn through play, structured activities, and interaction with others. Preschool teachers also assess children's progress, communicate with parents, and adapt lessons to meet each child's needs.

What does a preschool teacher do?

Preschool teachers develop the language, vocabulary, and interpersonal skills of children ages three through five, though some schools may enroll kids as young as two-years-old. These teachers take on a critical role in the growth of their students and use tools such as interactive play, songs, reading aloud, and repetitive writing to further their development. Much like elementary school teachers, preschool teachers create lesson plans for their students. Most curriculums involve a combination of academics and play-based learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a preschool teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preschool Teacher, you need foundational knowledge in early childhood education, typically supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree in the field and any required state certification. Familiarity with classroom management software, child assessment tools, and age-appropriate educational technologies is often necessary. Patience, creativity, and strong communication skills help foster a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment. These competencies are vital for supporting children's developmental milestones, ensuring a safe learning space, and building strong relationships with students and families.

What are some common challenges preschool teachers face when managing a classroom, and how can they be addressed?

Preschool teachers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse behaviors, keeping young children engaged, and balancing administrative tasks with classroom responsibilities. Effective classroom management strategies, such as setting clear routines and using positive reinforcement, can help create a structured learning environment. Collaboration with teaching assistants and open communication with parents also play crucial roles in addressing these challenges, ensuring that each child's needs are met while maintaining a positive classroom atmosphere.

What is the difference between Preschool Teacher vs Daycare Provider?

AspectPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild development certification, associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education
Work EnvironmentPreschools, early childhood education centers, private schools
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions focused on early learning
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar age groups and educational focus

While both Preschool Teachers and Daycare Providers work with young children, Preschool Teachers typically have formal education credentials and work in structured educational settings, focusing on early childhood development and preparing children for kindergarten. Daycare Providers often work in more informal environments, providing general care and supervision without necessarily focusing on educational curricula. Understanding these differences helps parents and employers choose the right professional for early childhood needs.

Is there a demand for preschool teachers?

Preschool teachers are in high demand due to the growing need for early childhood education and increased enrollment in preschool programs. Employment is expected to grow faster than average, with requirements often including a state certification or early childhood education degree. This demand is driven by increased awareness of the importance of early learning and expanding preschool access.

What qualifications do you need to be a preschool teacher?

To become a preschool teacher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field. Additionally, state-specific certifications or licenses, such as CPR and first aid, are often required, along with strong communication and classroom management skills.

Where do preschool teachers get paid the most?

Preschool teachers tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong demand for early childhood education, such as certain metropolitan areas or states with higher education funding. Factors like experience, education level, and certifications can also influence salary levels across different locations.
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Preschool Teacher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preschool Teacher job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,731 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Preschool Teacher - Northwest Early Childhood Education Center

Heart of the Valley YMCA

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the individual to perform a broad range of activities and duties needing full range of motion, including manual and finger dexterity and hand and eye coordination. The position requires the ability to lift 30 pounds, bend, stand and walk for extended periods of time. It also requires the ability to drive and occasionally requires working under stressful conditions and irregular hours.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work involves active classroom environment.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES

  • Communicate and promote the YMCA mission, goals and objectives to employees, volunteers and the community at large.
  • Promote a safe and positive atmosphere during scheduled working hours.
  • Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
  • Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
  • Complete required abuse risk management training.
  • Adhere to policies related to boundaries with children.
  • Implement designated curriculum for age appropriate group in accordance with the policies and philosophy of the Heart of the Valley YMCA as well as DHR.
  • Demonstrate cultural competency and respect for the child's background by incorporating cultural, linguistic and familial values and beliefs into the program and lesson plans.
  • Responsible for ensuring diverse program experience for children each day.
  • Understand difference between discipline and punishment. Use positive verbal and non-verbal communication with children to build trusting and stable relationships.
  • Ensure all children's individual needs are met with dignity and respect.
  • Assure that children's equipment and supplies are arranged properly, orderly and kept in good condition.
  • Assist children as they develop appropriate habits of eating, dressing, napping and toileting.
  • Responsible for appearance, decoration and learning environment of the classrooms in accordance with policies of the YMCA and DHR.
  • Responsible for keeping the program clean and sanitary to insure health and safety of all children.
  • Keep a neat and clean appearance, in accordance with the standards set by the YMCA.
  • Attend all staff meetings and in-service provided at the Center.
  • Assist in development, training and ongoing educational requirements through orientation, training and continued education opportunities.
  • Display the highest ethical and professional behavior and standards when working with the children, parents, child development personnel, and agencies associated with the YMCA Association.
  • Model, practice and carry out the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
  • Responsible for any other duties as assigned by the Child Development Center Director.

EXPERIENCE/PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

  • Willingness to carry out the mission of the YMCA and its programs.
  • Ability to understand the concepts of mutual respect, caring, honesty, and responsibility in positive communications and interaction with children, parents and staff.
  • Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to interpret, as well as, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures.
  • Ability to work independently and utilize initiative, ability to be organized and to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Work to continue personal competency through education, outside literature, seminars, etc.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/CERTIFICATIONS

  • Be at least 19 years of age or older.
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED.
  • Ability to plan, organize and implement program activities.
  • Excellent skills in teaching, communication, and human relations.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

  • Able to work as a team leader and builder/member.
  • Has an educator presence in all situations.
  • Able to work with diverse populations.
  • Professional appearance and behavior.
  • Able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
  • Able to research, analyze and solve problems.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Positive attitude.
  • Adhere to drug free/tobacco free workplace policy.
  • Desire to work in a YMCA setting in accordance with the YMCA mission.
  • Has strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Must pass a medical examination including TB Risk Assessment.
  • Must pass criminal records check and pre-employment drug screen.

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