What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Start Teacher - Swedesboro position at QUALITY CARE RESOURCE & REFERRAL SERVICE?
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Company Overview
Quality Care Resource & Referral Services, Inc. is a nonprofit agency dedicated to supporting families and childcare providers across Southern New Jersey. Since 2009, we have delivered high-quality early childhood education and family support services through our Head Start programs.
Job Summary
The Head Start Teacher is responsible for implementing a state-approved curriculum, assessing student development, and creating individualized lesson plans to meet the diverse needs of children.
The ideal candidate will hold a P-3 Certificate of Eligibility or P-3 Teaching Certificate (preferred, not required). Candidates must be able to pass fingerprinting and child abuse record checks. Experience with Teaching Strategies Gold, Creative Curriculum, and Spanish language skills are a plus.
Key Responsibilities
(Include but are not limited to)
- Plan and implement a balanced curriculum that supports children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development
- Use play-based and emergent curriculum approaches to create engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences
- Establish and maintain a consistent daily schedule including group learning, independent activities, motor development, and meals
- Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment that promotes diversity and anti-bias education
- Observe, assess, and document children’s progress using observations, screenings, and child portfolios
- Provide individualized instruction and differentiate learning based on student needs
- Maintain consistent attendance and adhere to scheduled working hours
- Communicate regularly with families to build strong, positive relationships
- Participate in professional development, staff meetings, and ongoing training
- Collaborate with support staff and specialists (speech, physical therapy, etc.) to support children’s individualized plans
- Promote positive behavior using proactive classroom management strategies
- Maintain classroom records, including attendance and monitoring documentation
- Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and program requirements
- Support program quality initiatives, including GROW NJ KIDS standards
- Serve as a role model and leader among teaching staff
- Assist with classroom audits and other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field from an accredited institution
- P-3 Teaching Certificate or Certificate of Eligibility (preferred)
- Minimum of two (2) years of teaching experience in a preschool, childcare, or school setting
- Experience with play-based or emergent curriculum
- Knowledge of early childhood education standards in New Jersey
- Familiarity with Teaching Strategies Gold and Creative Curriculum
- Strong understanding of Head Start Performance Standards and licensing regulations
- Ability to pass Criminal History Record and Child Abuse Record checks
- Valid NJ Driver’s License with a good driving record or reliable transportation
- Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to multitask and use technology and digital programs effectively
- Fluency in Spanish is a plus