What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Start Lead Teacher position at SOUTHERN AVENUE CHARTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF ACADEMIC EXCELL?
Reports to: Head Start Director / School Principal
Location: Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School, Memphis, TN
Salary Range: $19.35 – $23.56 per hour
Employment Type: Full-Time, 10-month
Position Summary:
Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School is seeking a passionate and dedicated Head Start Lead Teacher to join our early childhood education team. The Lead Teacher will be responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that promotes the school readiness of preschool-aged children. This role supports cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development aligned with Head Start Performance Standards and Tennessee Early Learning Development Standards (TN-ELDS).
Key Responsibilities:
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Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and lesson plans that promote school readiness and align with Head Start standards.
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Conduct ongoing child assessments and use data to individualize instruction.
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Create a warm and inclusive classroom environment that fosters curiosity, exploration, and a love of learning.
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Communicate regularly with families to support child development and build strong home-school connections.
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Maintain accurate records of attendance, assessments, and family communications.
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Provide supervision and mentoring to the Teacher Assistant(s) and collaborate with support staff.
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Participate in professional development, reflective supervision, and team meetings.
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Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, Head Start standards, and school policies.
Qualifications:
Qualifications:
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Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (Bachelor’s preferred).
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Minimum of one year of classroom experience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in a Head Start or early childhood program.
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Knowledge of TN-ELDS and Head Start Performance Standards.
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CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
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Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
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Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the success of all scholars.
Salary : $41,000