Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$28,520
Average salary range
Job Title
Lead Teacher (Child Care Center)
Job Outlook (Texas)
+12%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework or an associate degree in early childhood education may be preferred by some centers
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
Lead teachers must meet Texas Child Care Licensing requirements for age, education, and training. CPR and First Aid certification are commonly required, and many lead teachers pursue credentials such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
Most lead teachers have prior experience working in child care, preschool, or early learning settings. Experience as an assistant teacher, teacher aide, or float teacher is common, and lead teachers are often expected to support or supervise other classroom staff.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
A lead teacher is responsible for the daily care and learning of young children while leading the classroom. Day‑to‑day work includes:
- Planning and leading daily lessons and learning activities
- Creating a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment
- Supporting children’s social, emotional, physical, and learning development
- Supervising and guiding assistant teachers
- Observing, assessing, and documenting children’s progress
- Communicating with families about children’s daily activities and needs
- Following Texas Child Care Licensing and program standards
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Beth
Beth began her career as an assistant teacher while attending community college. After several years of supporting lead teachers in infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms, she was promoted to a lead teacher role. She enjoys creating engaging learning experiences and mentoring newer staff members. In the future, she hopes to become an assistant director and eventually lead a child care center.
Angela
Angela started working in child care shortly after high school and later earned her CDA Credential and an associate degree in early childhood education. Over the years, she has built strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues. She plans to remain a lead teacher long-term because she enjoys working directly with children and believes the classroom is where she can make the greatest impact.
Micah
Micah entered the field as a float teacher and enjoyed the opportunity to work with children across different age groups. As his experience grew, he became a lead teacher and developed a particular interest in supporting children with diverse learning and developmental needs. He is currently pursuing additional coursework and hopes to become an early intervention specialist in the future.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
Lead teachers enjoy working with children. They are patient, organized, and strong communicators. They are comfortable leading a classroom, managing routines, working closely with families, and supporting other staff while staying calm and flexible throughout the day.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- Assistant Teacher or Teacher Aide
- Float Teacher
- Babysitter
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, lead teachers may move into roles such as:
- Assistant Director
- Center Director
- Instructional Coach or Trainer
- Early Childhood Program Administrator