Head Start Early Childhood Educator/Teacher

🎯 Role Definition

As a Head Start Early Childhood Educator, you are more than just a teacher; you are a cornerstone of a child's foundational development and a vital partner to their family. In this role, you will design and implement a dynamic, developmentally appropriate curriculum that celebrates diversity and meets the individual needs of each child in your classroom. You will be responsible for creating a safe, stimulating, and welcoming atmosphere where children can explore, learn, and grow. This position requires a deep commitment to the principles of early childhood education, a talent for building strong relationships with families, and a collaborative spirit to work within a multidisciplinary team dedicated to holistic child and family wellness. If you are driven by a mission to close the achievement gap and empower vulnerable families, we invite you to apply.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Early Childhood Assistant Teacher
Childcare Provider or Daycare Teacher
Recent graduate with a degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

Advancement To:

Lead Teacher or Master Teacher
Site Supervisor or Center Director
Education Coordinator or Coach

Lateral Moves:

Family Service Advocate
Health & Nutrition Coordinator
Disabilities & Mental Health Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, anti-bias curriculum that addresses all developmental domains and aligns with Head Start Program Performance Standards.
Establish and maintain a safe, healthy, and engaging learning environment that promotes active exploration, positive social-emotional development, and intellectual curiosity.
Conduct ongoing, systematic observations and assessments of each child's development using approved tools (e.g., CLASS, DRDP) to inform lesson planning and individualization.
Develop and foster positive, supportive, and trusting relationships with children and their families, respecting their diverse cultural backgrounds, home languages, and traditions.
Integrate all aspects of Head Start services, including health, nutrition, mental health, and disabilities, into daily classroom activities and routines.
Implement positive behavior guidance strategies and social-emotional learning techniques that help children develop self-regulation, problem-solving skills, and empathy.
Ensure the classroom environment is well-organized, clean, and stocked with a rich variety of age-appropriate, open-ended materials and resources.
Guide and support the professional development of the Assistant Teacher and classroom volunteers, modeling best practices in early childhood education.
Facilitate at least two parent-teacher conferences and two home visits per program year to discuss the child's progress, share resources, and set collaborative family-centered goals.
Develop, document, and implement individualized learning plans for each child, including those with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), in collaboration with parents and specialists.
Promote early literacy and numeracy skills through intentional teaching, rich language exposure, storytelling, songs, and hands-on, play-based activities.
Actively supervise children at all times, both indoors and outdoors, to ensure their physical safety, emotional security, and well-being.
Model and promote healthy eating habits and personal hygiene routines, participating with children during mealtimes in a family-style dining setting to create a positive social experience.
Manage classroom transitions smoothly and effectively, minimizing wait times and maximizing opportunities for learning and engagement.
Screen children for developmental, sensory, and behavioral concerns using standardized screening tools within 45 days of enrollment and make referrals as needed.

Secondary Functions

Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential records, including daily attendance, meal counts, child observations, assessment data, and family communication logs.
Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team, including Family Service Advocates, Health Coordinators, and Disabilities Specialists, to provide comprehensive, integrated support for children and families.
Communicate effectively and professionally with parents on a daily basis regarding their child's activities, progress, and needs, using various methods (e.g., verbal check-ins, written notes, digital platforms).
Encourage and facilitate active parent and family engagement in all aspects of the program, including classroom volunteering, policy council participation, and educational workshops.
Participate actively in regular staff meetings, case conferences, and ongoing professional development trainings to stay current with best practices and program requirements.
Contribute to the recruitment and enrollment of eligible children and families for the Head Start program by participating in community outreach events and initiatives.
Ensure consistent compliance with all state child care licensing regulations and Head Start Program Performance Standards.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Curriculum Planning & Implementation: Expertise in developing and executing lesson plans using a recognized framework (e.g., Creative Curriculum, HighScope).
Child Assessment & Observation: Proficiency with formal and informal assessment tools (e.g., CLASS, DRDP, Ages & Stages Questionnaires) to track developmental progress.
Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of Head Start Program Performance Standards and state/local child care licensing requirements.
Classroom Management: Ability to effectively manage a preschool classroom, implementing positive guidance and behavior support strategies.
CPR/First Aid Certification: Current certification in Pediatric CPR and First Aid is required.
Technology Proficiency: Competence in using child assessment software, parent communication applications (e.g., Procare, Brightwheel), and Microsoft Office Suite.

Soft Skills

Patience, Empathy, & Nurturing Demeanor: A genuine ability to connect with young children and provide a warm, supportive presence.
Exceptional Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with children, families from diverse backgrounds, and colleagues.
Cultural Competency & Sensitivity: A strong commitment to creating an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates diversity.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Proven ability to work effectively as part of a teaching team and a larger interdisciplinary group.
Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Flexibility to handle the unexpected challenges of a dynamic classroom and adapt teaching strategies to meet individual child needs.
Strong Organizational & Time Management: Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, from lesson planning to documentation, in an efficient and timely manner.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

An Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development.
OR, a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or a state-awarded equivalent, with significant coursework in ECE.

Preferred Education:

A Bachelor's or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Early Childhood Education
Child Development & Family Studies
Human Development
Elementary Education with an ECE concentration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of direct experience as a teacher in a licensed preschool, Head Start, or other early childhood program.

Preferred: Prior experience working in a Head Start or Early Head Start program is highly desirable. Experience working with diverse, low-income populations is a significant asset. Bilingual abilities (especially in Spanish) are often a plus.