Head Teacher – Preschool

Location: Onsite, Multiple locations in Stamford, CT

Job Type: Full-time; 35–40 hours weekly depending on location (schedules are typically early mornings to mid-afternoons).

Length of Work Year: 51 weeks

Salary Range: $24-29/hour (rates are based on credentials, as per union contract)

About Us

Do you believe that high-quality early childhood education can shape a child’s future and strengthen entire communities? Are you passionate about working in a team-oriented environment where educators, healthcare providers, and family-service professionals collaborate to support every child’s growth? Are you driven to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging space where young children can learn, explore, and thrive?

If you’re a caring, dependable, and mission-driven early childhood professional, you may be a great fit for our team at CLC.

Established in 1902, CLC is the second-largest not-for-profit provider of Early Childhood Education in Connecticut. Our mission is to enrich the community by providing high-quality early childhood education and care programs for all families. Serving over 700 children across Early Head Start, Head Start, Child Development, and School Readiness programs in Stamford, we offer a collaborative and supportive environment for teachers and staff.

About You

You are an experienced educator and mentor who leads with purpose. You bring structure, creativity, and warmth to your classroom, helping children flourish while inspiring and guiding your teaching team. You value collaboration, reflective practice, and joyful learning.

About the Role

• Plan and implement curriculum that supports children’s development and learning.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and engaging classroom environment.
• Partner and communicate regularly with families and caregivers.
• Document and assess children’s progress through observations and standardized tools.
• Collaborate with co-teachers, support staff, and administrators.
• Supervise and mentor Assistant Teachers.
• Foster a positive learning environment aligned with Head Start/Early Head Start Performance Standards and NAEYC standards.
• Implement and annually review CLC operating policies, plans, and procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with NAEYC and/or Head Start/Early Head Start Performance Standards.
• Knowledge of Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS), Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF), and Teaching Strategies Gold (standardized assessment tool).
• Experience with Creative Curriculum, CT Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS), NAEYC Portfolio, and OEC/Head Start/Early Head Start Performance Standards.
• Strong understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practice.
• A growth mindset and willingness to pursue professional development.
• Experience using Google Suite.
• Levels of experience will be a key factor in candidate selection.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience coordinating staff schedules, including break coverage, to ensure smooth classroom operations and compliance with staffing ratios.
• Demonstrates ability to foster family engagement by encouraging participation in classroom, center-wide, and community events.

Benefits

At CLC, we support your well-being and career with a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) with Employer Match (up to 4%)
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Tuition Assistance and Professional Development (including CDA support)
• CPR, First Aid, OSHA, and Medication Training
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career growth and promotional opportunities

To learn more about CLC’s benefits package, please click here.

To learn more about CLC, visit: www.clcfc.org

CLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to diversity in the workplace

Successful completion of background check and drug screening is required as a condition of hire.

Salary : $24 - $29