Head Start Teacher (10-months)

Under the direction of the Site Manager, the Teacher will have the responsibility of being the primary caregiver for one group of children in the Head Start classroom.

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience with preschool age (3-5) is required. 
• CPR and First Aid certification is preferred.
• Experience working in a non-profit is preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not include any supervisory responsibilities.

Essential Job Functions

1. Perform according to the standards set forth by Head Start, the NAEYC, CWLA, Tennessee Day Care Licensing and Porter-Leath.
2. Assume responsibilities as the primary caregiver for one group of children that includes children with special needs.
3. Plans daily activities of enrichment and care for one classroom of children according to the standards set forth by Head Start, NAEYC, Tennessee Day Care Licensing, and Porter-Leath standards.
4. Implement intentional, research-based curriculum (Creative Curriculum and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF)), using ongoing assessment to individualize instruction for diverse learners.
5. Provide instructional leadership and serve as a role model for best practices in early childhood education, ensuring classroom fidelity to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), NAEYC, and state licensing regulations.
6. Monitor and ensure compliance with federal monitoring protocols and performance benchmarks, contributing to program-wide success in federal reviews.
7. Cooperatively work with other staff members in creating a positive environment for children, families, and staff.
8. Collect, analyze, and maintain accurate records of attendance, meal counts, educational and developmental data (including assessments, screeners, and anecdotal notes, etc.) in compliance with federal reporting and school readiness goals; ensure documentation is audit-ready for ongoing monitoring.
9. Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring a coordinated plan of care for each family.
10. Act as a mentor to families as their child’s first teacher.
11. Support and encourage best parenting practices.
12. Independently plan and conduct structured home visits that align with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, strengthening family engagement and goal-setting in alignment with child development plans.
13. Keep Supervisor informed of programmatic issues in a timely and concise manner.
14. Conduct ongoing child evaluations, screeners, and assessments.
15. Contribute to team effort by performing other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

1. Knowledge of and the ability to implement developmentally appropriate programs for preschool child care.
2. Effective oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate with diverse groups.
3. Possess a sincere desire to make a difference in the community and develop professional skills.
4. Ability to have a positive relationship with children, staff, and others from diverse backgrounds, including children with special needs.
5. Ability to work effectively and positively with parents to improve the quality of life of their children.
6. Possess an attitude of continuous improvement.
7. Possess a commitment to continued education to include regular participation in workshops, conferences, training sessions, etc.
8. Ability to provide a continuum of care to children ages three (3) to five (5).
9. Ability to perceive and deal with sensitive issues while maintaining confidentiality and objectivity.
10. Ability to follow through on given directives in a timely manner.
11. Flexibility in scheduling.
12. Keep accurate student records/Education files.
13. Implement and track individualized education plan (IEP) goals and behavior referrals/ support plans in coordination with education and health personnel and mental health consultants, ensuring equitable and inclusive classroom practices.
14. Provide an environment that is safe and conducive for all children to learn.
15. Familiarity with and implements Conscious Discipline strategies and techniques to support positive teacher/child interactions and social emotional growth of all children.
16. Implements the Pyramid Model to identify appropriate classroom management techniques to use in the classroom.
17. Attend meetings as necessary to support student development and promote student outcomes. 
18. Ability to develop trusting relationships within a client’s home.
19. Ability to work as a team player and interact/assist all employees as necessary.
20. Possess the ability to forge a mutually respectful partnership with persons served and their families, conviction about the capacity of people to grow and change, the ability to set limits and maintain the helping role of the employee and the ability to intervene appropriately to meet the needs of the persons served and their families.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger/handle/feel.  Occasionally required to stand and walk.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close and color vision.  Work in a non-smoking environment.

Special Conditions

Maintain a valid driver’s license with a good driving record with appropriate level of insurance. Must be able to obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid training/certification within 90 days of employment

NOTE: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.