Lead Head Start Teacher
Position Title: Lead Head Start Teacher
Reports To: Center Director
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Lead Head Start Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a high-quality early childhood education program that meets Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing requirements, and the developmental needs of children ages 3–5. The Lead Teacher provides a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while promoting school readiness, social-emotional development, and family engagement. The Lead Teacher also supervises and mentors assistant teachers and classroom aides to ensure consistent, high-quality care and education.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.
- Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment.
- Create a positive classroom culture that encourages learning, independence, and respectful behavior.
- Ensure active supervision of children at all times.
- Maintain required child-to-staff ratios.
Child Development & Assessment
- Observe, assess, and document each child's developmental progress.
- Complete developmental screenings and ongoing assessments as required.
- Individualize instruction to meet the needs of each child.
- Collaborate with specialists to support children with disabilities or special needs.
- Promote school readiness through intentional teaching practices.
Family Engagement
- Build positive relationships with families.
- Conduct parent conferences and maintain regular communication regarding each child's progress.
- Encourage family participation in classroom activities and Head Start events.
- Maintain confidentiality of children and families at all times.
Leadership
- Supervise and provide guidance to assistant teachers and classroom support staff.
- Model professionalism and positive interactions with children, families, and coworkers.
- Assist with onboarding and mentoring new classroom staff.
- Participate in team meetings and collaborate with administration to improve program quality.
Health & Safety
- Follow all Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing regulations, and center policies.
- Conduct daily health checks as required.
- Ensure proper sanitation and infection control procedures are followed.
- Report accidents, injuries, suspected abuse, or safety concerns immediately.
- Maintain emergency preparedness procedures and participate in required drills.
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain accurate attendance records and classroom documentation.
- Complete required lesson plans, assessments, incident reports, and other documentation on time.
- Ensure classroom files remain compliant with licensing and Head Start requirements.
- Participate in monitoring visits and quality improvement activities.
Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (preferred).
- CDA Credential with Preschool Endorsement accepted where permitted.
- Experience working in a Head Start or Early Head Start program preferred.
- Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and Florida childcare licensing regulations.
- CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
- Level II Background Screening as required by the State of Florida.
- Ability to pass required health screenings and training requirements.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong classroom management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with families and staff.
- Strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
Physical Requirements
- Frequently lift up to 40 pounds.
- Sit, stand, bend, kneel, and move throughout the classroom for extended periods.
- Participate in indoor and outdoor activities daily.
- Respond quickly during emergencies.
Work Schedule
- Monday through Friday.
- Schedule determined by the Center Director.
- Occasional evening meetings or family events may be required.
Performance Expectations
The Lead Head Start Teacher is expected to:
- Maintain full compliance with Head Start Performance Standards.
- Demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct.
- Foster a positive learning environment that promotes children's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
- Maintain positive relationships with families, coworkers, and community partners.
- Participate in ongoing professional development and required annual training.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $20.20 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have your AA degree in Education?
Work Location: In person
