Head Start Lead Classroom Coordinator - Norway Center - Beginning 2026-27

This is a full-time, non-exempt school year position that will begin with the 2026-27 school year. This Head Start Lead Classroom Coordinator position is currently located at Norway-Vulcan Area Schools. Compensation is determined by the ESP II Master Agreement, with initial step and lane placement reflecting the candidate’s education and professional experience. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including medical insurance (or a cash-in-lieu option) and employer-paid dental and vision coverage. This posting will be open for initial consideration through June 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. CDT.

Title: Head Start Lead Classroom Coordinator (Currently located at the Norway Center, Dickinson County)

Report To: Director of Early Childhood Education

Length of Contract: Full Time, School Year (1,455 hours)

Employment Status: Union, Non-Exempt

Qualifications:

1. An Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field, or A Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field and willingness to grow professionally at one’s own initiative.
2. A minimum of one year successful experience in a licensed preschool or child care program.
3. A professional and in-depth knowledge of child growth & development and sensitivity to the needs of young children and their families.
4. Be physically qualified as determined by a physical examination upon hire.
5. Able to physically manage, lift and interact with students of a wide range of physical size and ability as needed.
6. Driving may be necessary for this position which would require a valid driver’s license. 

General Description:

• Facilitate the intellectual, emotional, psychological and physical Development of children.  
• Daily plan and evaluate the learning experiences of children.  
• Coordinate Child Service Plans and Family Partnership Agreements.
• Coordinate the volunteer efforts of parents and adults within the classroom.  
• Work together with parents and office staff in planning classroom and center activities.
• Promote good public relations by neat appearance of person and proper attitude.

Essential Functions:

1. Comply with all applicable policies, procedures, rules, regulations and Early Childhood Standards of Conduct.
2. Work cooperatively with Education and Early Childhood Development Coordinator and follow guidance provided. 
3. Work in close partnership with Assistant/Associate Classroom Coordinator in:

   * the sharing of responsibilities, 

   * fostering the feeling of teaming,

   * understanding the time commitments and responsibilities of both parties and creating a balance.

   * recognizing both the strengths and challenges of your team partner and 

   * providing ways to take full advantage of the strengths and provide means to compensate for challenges.

4. Responsible for the implementation of Head Start Performance Standards throughout the program day.

5. Responsible for implementing the High/Scope Curriculum in the classroom, in conjunction with classroom staff, volunteers and Support Staff.

6. Provide a classroom atmosphere to promote the individual social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth of children.

7. Work cooperatively with Assistant/Associate Classroom Coordinator to maintain a safe and secure classroom environment.

8. Coordinate classroom activities as they relate to Early Childhood Education and assigned children and families.

9. Responsible for collaborating with the parent/guardian in the ongoing development and implementation of each Child Service Plan and each Family Partnership Agreement.

10. Coordinate and consult with all service area coordinators.

11. Develop and implement, as a team, weekly lesson plans.

12. Work as a team with center staff and transporters, serving as a transportation aide when necessary.

13. Maintain child and family records and information in a safe and confidential manner and prepare records for transition with parental consent.

14. Organize and maintain an inviting and safe classroom for children and adults that promotes learning through Head Start Performance Standards, State of Michigan Licensing and the High/Scope Curriculum

15. Provide reports and documentation of:

    * lesson plans

    * anecdotal records  and progress on Child Outcome  Record data entry and reports.

    * travel and expenses

    * supplies, inventory and other program documentation & record keeping responsibilities as deemed necessary by administration.

16. Maintain supplies.

17. Responsible to encourage and insure that all adults in the classroom engage in appropriate adult/child and adult/adult interactions including, but not limited to: eating with and conversation during mealtimes, actively engaging during worktime, and exiting and entering the bus and the classroom.

18. Responsible for coordinating all classroom activities, meal service and clean-up.

19. Participate in all staff meetings and ongoing training to further develop necessary skills and knowledge.

20. Participate in a professional evaluation process

21. Train and work as a team with parent & community volunteers and ancillary staff.

22. Assist in the recruitment of children, attend parent center meetings, participate in home visits & parent teacher conferences.

23. May be required to serve as Temporary or Substitute Center Director of Licensed Early Childhood Center if meet position qualifications.  

24. Must have regular and reliable attendance. 

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Notifies appropriate administrative personnel or designee in case of absence/illness daily or continued absence/illness in a timely manner so as to secure a substitute.
2. Serve as a positive role model for DIISD constituents demonstrating how to be a responsible citizen and productive member of society.
3. Adhere to the DIISD Code of Ethics.
4. Ability to carry out other associated duties as assigned by administration.

Additional Working Conditions:

1. Occasional exposure to blood, bodily fluid and tissue.
2. With reimbursement, may be required to use personal vehicle to perform job related functions.

Salary : $18 - $29