Lead Head Start Teacher

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 $21.00 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