Head Start / UPK Teacher

Full-Time – 37.5 Hours Per Week / 46 Weeks Per Year 

Grade 15

Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for implementing the established curriculum and designing classroom activities which foster early literacy, social, emotional and intellectual skills appropriate to the children's developmental level.   Supervises classroom and other staff as assigned.  Carries out responsibilities in accordance with Federal, State and local policies as well as Agency Policies and Procedures.

JOB DUTIES:

• Oversees the daily operations of the classroom; ensures a safe, healthy and supportive environment.
• Maintains the classroom according to the Head Start Performance Standards and Day Care Licensing regulations.
• Provides direct supervision of teaching staff, volunteers and other assigned workers; works collaboratively with supervisor and HS Policy Council on hiring and firing recommendations/activities.
• Conducts new staff orientation and annual center orientation.
• Plans appropriate classroom activities for children implementing the High/Scope curriculum and supervisor’s recommendations; incorporates ideas of other classroom staff in weekly plans.
• Implements related curriculum. (Second Step, Zoophonics etc.)
• Identifies children's individual developmental needs, interests and abilities through assessment with monthly observations using the High/Scope Curriculum technique; records and reports child outcome data.
• Completes required paperwork, attendance records, MBO, newsletter, assessment reviews, etc.
• Completes MAT training and administers medication according to policy as needed.
• Coordinates with other program staff to meet the needs of children and families.
• Conducts home visits and parent/staff conferences per assigned schedule; completes/oversees weekly head checks.
• Attends staff meetings, professional meetings, conferences and training sessions for skill maintenance and enhancement.
• Arranges substitute coverage in classroom and notifies supervisor.
• Prepares for and participates in case review meetings as scheduled.
• Assists with general center maintenance;
• Establishes and maintains relationships with school district personnel and child care community.
• Conducts required screenings; completes the referral process and coordinates with service providers in implementing the IEP and tracks and monitors special services providers.
• Works collaboratively and shares information; participates in decision making with Coordinators and other staff.
• Participates in agency work groups, committees and community events.
• Attends CPSE meetings as required; attends and participates in evening training/orientation sessions as required.
• Completes and submits paperwork timely and accurately; and documentation for the center/classroom.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Must become familiar with the performance standards of Head Start, Child Outcomes Framework and Day Care Licensing.
• Must have a desire and ability to work with low income children and families and have a thorough understanding of Early Childhood philosophy and the principles of inclusion for children with special needs.
• Must exhibit professionalism, good judgment, flexibility and be organized.
• Must be able to work with others in a warm, professional manner and be a positive role model to staff, children and parents.
• Must be able to plan and direct the work of others, be creative in classroom activities for children and families and foster a team approach classroom environment.
• Must have knowledge of public services and resources.
• Must have good communication skills and be able to follow complex oral and written directions.
• Must possess valid NYS Driver's License with record within agency policy and have access to a reliable vehicle for travel and transporting children.
• Must have acceptable physical and mental health to carry out the responsibilities of the position including lifting and participating in activities with children at their level.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, or Bachelor’s Degree and coursework equivalent to a major relating to Early Childhood Education with related experience teaching preschool children and supervisory experience; or
• Associate’s Degree* in Early Childhood and 2 - 3 years experience teaching preschool children and supervisory experience.

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Oswego County Opportunities, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.