Preschool Lead Teacher - Federal Head Start Program

HEAD START PRESCHOOL LEAD TEACHER

Head Start Preschool Teacher PRIMARY FUNCTION

Responsible for planning, implementation, and administration of a Head Start classroom, including daily operation, supervision of staff and volunteers, and adherence to the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (DEEC) regulations, the Head Start Performance Standards as well as the Head Start Act (OHS) regulations.

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Perform the functions of lead teacher position with a strong understanding of the Head Start performance standards and the component plans;and thorough knowledge and application of Developmentally Appropriate practices: Cooperate with other staff and classroom groups to maintain the smooth functioning of the center, which at times may require changes to meet the needs of the children;
• Mentor, train and coach assistant teachers in developmentally appropriate practices following policies and procedures.
• Prepare and conduct bi-monthly and annual evaluations of assistant teacher.
• Train/work with assistant teaching staff on an ongoing basis to raise the scores of the following tools: Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS), Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS) and Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS).
• Meets with Assistant Teacher 2x each month for documented supervision meetings where the following topics will be covered: review of classroom observations, policies and procedures, teamwork, Professional Development Plans (PDPs), CLASS, ECERS, QRIS, Teaching Strategies Gold outcomes
• Creates PDPs, with help of Center Manager for assistant teacher based on individual educational and professional needs and observations.
• Ensures assistant teacher is compliant with program policies and are working together to hold necessary case conferences and documenting appropriately.
• Provides guidance and direction to assistant teacher through daily contact and team meetings.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with agency policy and legal requirements.
• Ensures safety is a priority in performing all job responsibilities.

Preschool Teacher Skills / Knowledge Required

• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field; and
• Have or working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education; and
• Must meet DEEC Lead Teacher qualifications; and
• Knowledge of DEEC and OHS regulations
• Have knowledge and experience in the philosophy, and practices of Head Start (or comparable child development programs), early childhood education, developmentally appropriate practice, and bilingual education
• Strong time management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills, including internet, email, excel and the ability to learn new systems as required.
• Positive work ethic.

Hours:

40 hours per week

Benefits:

Our staff is supported and encouraged by a strong management team. We offer an enviable benefits package that includes health insurance for as little as $27.00/week, dental insurance for as little as $4.00/week, life insurance, a 403(b) plan with a generous agency match, tuition reimbursement, FSA/Dependent Care, EAP program, short term disability and paid time off.

Compensation:$22.00 to $25.00 per hour depending upon educational level

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Early Childhood Education: 2 years (Preferred)
• Childcare: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• CPR Certification (Preferred)
• Child Development Associate Certification (Preferred)
• EEC Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $25