Head Start Teacher (2026-2027)

Job Title: Head Start Teacher

FLSA: Exempt                                               

Employment Status: Non-Classified

License Required: Yes

REPORTS TO: Principal

Summary

The Head Start Teacher provides high-quality instruction and supervision in a safe, healthy, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children ages three and four. The teacher delivers comprehensive educational services in partnership with families to support the social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development of children enrolled in the Head Start program.

The Head Start Teacher develops and implements engaging classroom instruction aligned with the Virginia Early Learning and Development Standards, Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, and Richmond Public Schools curriculum. The teacher provides ongoing assessment of student progress, supports individualized learning goals, and promotes successful transition to kindergarten.

This position supports the mission and vision of Powhatan County Public Schools and Richmond Public Schools by fostering positive relationships with children, families, staff, and community partners while ensuring compliance with federal Head Start regulations and Virginia Department of Education requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Must hold or be eligible for a Virginia teaching license with one of the following endorsements:
  • Early/Primary Education PreK–3
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Early Childhood Special Education (Birth–Age 5)
  • Other approved early childhood endorsement consistent with Virginia licensure requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in:
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Child Development
  • Elementary Education with early childhood coursework
  • Related field as permitted under Head Start requirements
• Experience teaching preschool-aged children preferred.
• Experience implementing early childhood curriculum and assessment practices preferred.
• Experience working collaboratively with families and multidisciplinary teams preferred.
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, Virginia Early Learning and Development Standards, and developmentally appropriate practices preferred.
• Bilingual skills, including Spanish, preferred.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Supports and communicates the mission, vision, and goals of Powhatan County Public Schools and the preschool program.
• Plans and implements developmentally appropriate instruction that meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of preschool students.
• Creates a classroom environment that is safe, engaging, inclusive, and conducive to learning.
• Develops lesson plans and maintains written documentation in accordance with division, state, and federal guidelines.
• Establishes clear instructional objectives and communicates expectations effectively to students and families.
• Promotes school readiness through instruction in early literacy, language development, mathematics, social-emotional learning, and motor development.
• Uses a variety of instructional strategies, materials, and learning experiences to support diverse learners.
• Establishes and maintains high expectations for student learning and behavior.
• Identifies students with developmental, academic, behavioral, or social-emotional needs and collaborates with specialists and support staff to provide appropriate interventions and services.
• Conducts ongoing child assessments and maintains accurate student records and documentation as required by program regulations and division policy.
• Provides regular communication with families regarding student progress, classroom activities, and developmental goals.
• Builds strong partnerships with families to support student success and family engagement.
• Assists with transition activities to support students entering kindergarten.
• Participates in required staff meetings, professional development, training, and collaborative planning opportunities.
• Assists with the collection and reporting of data required for local, state, and federal reporting purposes.
• Maintains compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, Virginia licensing regulations, health and safety procedures, and division policies.
• Demonstrates professionalism, ethical conduct, and a commitment to continuous professional growth.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the supervisor or administration.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child growth and development
• Ability to establish positive relationships with young children and families
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, families, and community agencies
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices

Physical Demands

• Ability to actively supervise preschool-aged children throughout the school day
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting
• Ability to lift and move classroom materials and equipment up to 40 pounds
• Ability to participate in indoor and outdoor instructional activities

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Evaluation

Performance on this job will be evaluated in accordance with school board policy and administrative regulations on evaluation of licensed personnel. Setting SMART goals and maintaining a Documentation Log are required methods of providing evidence of performance related to the specific performance standards required by the Code of Virginia.

Salary : $53,210 - $83,810