What are the responsibilities and job description for the Early Head Start Teacher position at Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission?
Company Description The Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (SEARP&DC), established in 1969 by the Alabama State Legislature, serves seven member counties in Southeast Alabama. A board of 35 representatives provides governance and acts as liaisons for residents, ensuring local needs and priorities are heard. SEARP&DC works collaboratively with community stakeholders to set goals that support regional growth and quality of life. The Commission’s staff is dedicated to planning and implementing programs that make Southeast Alabama a better place to live, work, and learn.
Role Description The Early Head Start Teacher is a full-time, on-site role based in Florala, AL. This position is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities for infants and toddlers in accordance with Early Head Start standards and SEARP&DC policies. The teacher designs daily lesson plans, supports social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and maintains a safe, nurturing classroom environment. Duties include observing and assessing children’s progress, documenting developmental milestones, and communicating regularly with families about their child’s growth and needs. The role also involves collaborating with fellow educators and support staff, participating in required training, and ensuring program compliance with state and federal regulations.
Qualifications
Role Description The Early Head Start Teacher is a full-time, on-site role based in Florala, AL. This position is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities for infants and toddlers in accordance with Early Head Start standards and SEARP&DC policies. The teacher designs daily lesson plans, supports social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and maintains a safe, nurturing classroom environment. Duties include observing and assessing children’s progress, documenting developmental milestones, and communicating regularly with families about their child’s growth and needs. The role also involves collaborating with fellow educators and support staff, participating in required training, and ensuring program compliance with state and federal regulations.
Qualifications
- Foundational early childhood education skills, including knowledge of infant and toddler development, curriculum planning, and age-appropriate classroom management.
- Ability to observe, assess, and document children’s developmental progress and use this information to inform instructional practices.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to build positive relationships with children, families, coworkers, and community partners.
- Organizational and time-management skills to maintain records, meet reporting deadlines, and follow program guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive practices that support children and families from diverse backgrounds.
- Minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Infant/Toddler or an associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field; higher degrees are preferred.
- Ability to meet all Early Head Start and SEARP&DC hiring requirements, including background checks, health clearances, and ongoing professional development.
- Experience working in an Early Head Start, Head Start, or similar early childhood setting is highly beneficial.