Description:
Company: Pathfinder
Job Title: Early Head Start Teacher
Category: Childcare & Education
Location: Huntington, IN
Job Type: Full-Time
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30a-4:30p (40/hrs)
Starting Pay: $16.65-$21.95/hr. (based on level of education)
Make a Difference from the Start.
As an Early Head Start Teacher at Pathfinder, you’ll help nurture young minds through purposeful, play-based learning. This role supports children ages 0–3 during critical years of development by building strong relationships, honoring family culture, and creating a safe, enriching classroom environment.
As an Early Head Start Teacher at Pathfinder, You Will:
Learning & Curriculum Planning
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Develop and implement weekly lesson plans aligned with assessment data and the Early Learning Outcomes Framework
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Create culturally responsive, hands-on activities that support development in all learning domains
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Use Conscious Discipline and developmentally appropriate practices to foster emotional growth
Child Development Support
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Complete and document developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment and on an ongoing basis
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Track child progress and partner with families to set individualized learning goals
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Ensure daily routines promote exploration, independence, and safety
Family Engagement & Communication
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Conduct regular home visits and parent-teacher conferences
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Support parent involvement through shared goal setting and nutrition assessments
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Communicate regularly and respectfully with families from diverse backgrounds
Compliance & Classroom Environment
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Follow and implement all Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines and Head Start Performance Standards
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Maintain a safe, predictable classroom in line with NAEYC and Paths to Quality requirements
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Document attendance, child progress, and safety checks according to policy
Team Collaboration & Professional Growth
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Work positively with co-teachers and staff to ensure a supportive team environment
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Attend regular staff meetings and participate in required training (20+ hours annually)
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Actively contribute to continuous improvement and staff development efforts
Key Responsibilities:
The Impact You’ll Make as an Early Head Start Teacher:
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Promote school readiness and lifelong learning for infants and toddlers
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Build trust with families as a supportive educational partner
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Create a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive
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Advance Pathfinder’s mission to empower people to live their best lives from the very beginning
What You Bring to the Role:
Skills & Competencies
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Warm, approachable communication style with strong relationship-building skills
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Effective time management, flexibility, and a team-first attitude
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Understanding of child development and commitment to equity
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Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical standards
What to Expect in This Role:
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Fast-paced, flexible classroom environment with frequent transitions
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40-hour workweek with occasional home visits outside standard hours
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Daily interaction with children, families, and team members
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Opportunities for professional development and growth within Pathfinder
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Required participation in staff meetings, trainings, and community events
Pathfinder’s mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.
Benefits & Pathfinder Perks – We Care About YOU!
Competitive Benefits Package (if applicable):
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Competitive Pay & Paid Training – Earn while you learn with comprehensive training.
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Paid Time Off & Holidays – Maintain a healthy work-life balance with PTO and paid holidays.
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Comprehensive Insurance Coverage – Medical, Dental, and Vision plans to support your well-being.
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Employer-Paid Coverage – Enjoy free Basic Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD).
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403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match – Plan for your future with a generous retirement savings plan and employer contributions.
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Tuition Reimbursement – Invest in your future with financial assistance for continued education.
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Professional Development & Training – Enhance your skills and career through learning opportunities.
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Person-Centered Thinking Training – Gain valuable insights into individualized care and service.
Pathfinder Perks:
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Wellness Platform Incentives – Earn rewards for prioritizing your health and well-being.
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Financial Wellness Platform – Access earned wages before payday for added financial flexibility.
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support sessions for employees and their immediate household members.
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Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic – Providing childcare for children in the community with minor illnesses.
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Exclusive Discounts – Save with special offers, including:
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Verizon Wireless Discount – Stay connected for less.
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YMCA Discount – Enjoy reduced membership rates for fitness and wellness.
Pathfinder Values: People First – Integrity - Contribution – Growth – Empowerment
Requirements:
Preferred Minimum Qualifications
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A minimum of an infant/toddler CDA or 120 hours specific to infant/toddler development. An associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field.
- Staff hired with a degree in a related field have four months to complete CDA coursework equivalent to 120 hours of infant/toddler-specific training.
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At least 21 years of age.
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Basic language, written, and computer skills necessary for communication and documentation.
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Demonstrated ability to support people with disabilities.
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Ability to work a flexible schedule if needed.
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Valid driver’s license.
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Ability to speak, hear, and read the English language.
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Be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, and climb stairs
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Be able to lift 50 pounds and push/pull against potential resistance.
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Be able to implement CPR and First Aid when needed.
