POSTED ON April 17, 2026

Central Tots Lead Teacher

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Central Synagogue’s Vision

Central Synagogue is one of the leading and largest Reform congregations in the country. Located in Midtown Manhattan, Central’s reach includes more than 3,500 member families, a livestream community numbering in the hundreds of thousands, and more than 800 students, from birth to twelfth grade, in the Nursery and Religious schools. It has long played a significant role in the national Reform movement and is known for its innovation and leadership in worship, leading to a greatly expanded audience over the last two decades.

Central Synagogue works toward a world in which Judaism is core to the lives of Central members and Jews everywhere and is a profound and positive force for humanity. Central continually redefines what it means to be Jewish today, both within the Synagogue community and far beyond the Synagogue’s walls. The diverse clergy and professional team work hard, in collaboration with lay leadership, to build deep and enduring relationships among Central members, creating a caring, dynamic, and joyful community.

Central Synagogue is an inclusive and welcoming community. The Synagogue encourages participation from all who seek a connection to Jewish life and want to be part of its sacred community regardless of religious background, race, ethnicity, gender, ability, socioeconomic status, political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Central is committed to being an open tent, a place that welcomes all people, including those who have been historically and institutionally marginalized or excluded from the Jewish community.

The Synagogue is well resourced, has over 100 staff, and is governed by a 29-member Board of Trustees. To learn more, please visit: www.centralsynagogue.org.

Our Vision at Central Synagogue’s Central Tots Program

Early childhood is a magical time of discovery for children and their parents. At Central Synagogue, one of the largest Reform congregations in North America located in Midtown Manhattan, we provide children and their grown-ups with rich learning and growth experiences that establish them as lifelong learners and celebratory experiences that connect them to the joys of Judaism through an exploration of values, traditions, and rituals.

Job Summary

The Central Tots Lead Teacher is a member of Central Synagogue’s Early Childhood Department and is responsible for the education, care, and well-being of assigned groups of students and families during their time in our programs. The Lead Teacher generally teaches 1–2 classes each morning, with each class consisting of up to approximately 10 children, each accompanied by a trusted grown-up.

Under the guidance of the Director of Family Engagement and Central Tots, the Lead Teacher implements planned curriculum, provides a developmentally appropriate classroom environment, sets classroom and individual student goals, and builds strong partnerships with families. Responsibilities also include regular communication with parents, participation in team meetings, and upholding the program’s philosophy.

In the afternoon, the Lead Teacher supports Nursery School programming, including chaperoning after-school classes. This role works closely with assistant teachers and Nursery School staff and reports to the Director of Family Engagement and Central Tots.

We are seeking a dynamic educator who demonstrates creativity, flexibility, kindness, and warmth, and who is passionate about working with toddlers and their families.

Position Details

• Reports To: Director of Family Engagement & Central Tots
• Department: Early Childhood
• Schedule: Full-time, 10-month position (Exempt, not eligible for overtime)
• Hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM; Friday: until 2:30 PM
• Date: April 2026

Essential Duties / Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily classroom life, including health and safety, routines, and transitions.
• Implement child-centered, developmentally appropriate, emergent curriculum.
• Plan activities that support self-esteem, social skills, developmental growth, and independence.
• Engage parents, caregivers, and accompanying adults in classroom experiences.
• Collaborate with teaching team, administrators, and Youth & Family staff.
• Incorporate Shabbat, Jewish holidays, and Jewish values into classroom learning.
• Communicate effectively with parents via phone, email, and in person.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of early childhood or toddler teaching experience
• Experience in classrooms that include parents or caregivers
• Knowledge of Judaism and Jewish holidays (preferred)
• Master’s degree in early childhood education or related field (preferred)

Other Duties

This description outlines general responsibilities and is not exhaustive. Management reserves the right to modify duties as needed.

Compensation & Benefits

The expected salary range for this position is $55,000 to $63,000. Central Synagogue offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support a diverse and dedicated workforce. Compensation is commensurate with experience and factors such as skills, education, and scope of experience.