Head Start Teacher

Department: Early Childhood Education
Reports To: Education Coordinator
Supervises: Classroom Instructional Support Staff
Pay Rate:

• Level 1: $20.37/hour
• Level 2: $23.32/hour

Schedule: 40 hours per week, following an academic calendar (August–June)
Work Type: On-Site Only

Compensation & Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package starting the 1st of the month after 30 days
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with immediate eligibility and up to 7% employer match
• Paid Leave:
• Accrued sick leave
• 3 personal days annually
• 17 paid holidays, including your birthday
• Tuition Reimbursement for eligible coursework
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program eligibility after 10 years of service
• Cell phone discount (18%) on qualifying plans

Position Overview

This leadership role within the classroom is responsible for planning and delivering high-quality early childhood instruction in alignment with Head Start standards. The Lead Teacher oversees the daily operations of the classroom, mentors support staff, and maintains a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for children ages 3 to 5.

You will be responsible for designing developmentally appropriate lesson plans, implementing curriculum, assessing student progress, and fostering parent engagement. The position also includes the supervision of a Teacher Assistant and additional classroom staff. This is an on-site, school-year-based role.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement evidence-based curriculum (e.g., Creative Curriculum) that promotes holistic child development in social, emotional, physical, and cognitive domains
• Develop weekly lesson plans tailored to children’s individual learning goals and cultural backgrounds
• Lead daily classroom activities, ensuring adherence to schedules and safety protocols
• Supervise and mentor classroom team members, providing feedback and guidance to support high-quality teaching practices
• Ensure emergency preparedness by conducting annual training with classroom staff
• Complete and analyze developmental and social-emotional screenings with family input; refer children for additional evaluation as needed
• Conduct ongoing observations and collect assessment data three times per year to guide instruction
• Maintain accurate child records in COPA data system and prepare progress reports for internal and external stakeholders
• Schedule and conduct two parent-teacher conferences and two home visits per school year
• Partner with families to establish educational goals for children and promote continued learning at home
• Participate in transition planning to kindergarten in collaboration with local schools
• Maintain a safe, organized, and culturally responsive classroom environment
• Support family engagement, recruitment, and retention efforts across all program options
• Work collaboratively with the Special Services team to address the needs of children with disabilities or developmental delays
• Ensure constant supervision and active engagement with children at all times
• Respect and respond to family structures, values, languages, and cultural diversity
• Maintain confidentiality and fulfill responsibilities as a mandated reporter
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and continuous quality improvement efforts
• Other duties as assigned by leadership

Minimum Qualifications

Level 1:

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, or
• Associate or Bachelor’s in another field plus 15 ECE credits or valid CDA (specific to age group)
• At least 3 years of classroom experience with children ages birth–5

Level 2:

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field with equivalent ECE coursework
• Experience working with preschool-aged children
• Preferred: State teaching certificate for preschool education

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance
• Certification in First Aid and CPR (or willingness to obtain)
• Basic proficiency in email, data entry, and Google Drive

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Understanding of early childhood development, especially in diverse and inclusive settings
• Skilled in lesson planning, classroom management, and child assessment
• Ability to collaborate effectively with families and staff
• Competence in adapting instruction for children with special needs or different language backgrounds
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Respect for cultural differences and sensitivity to family values and dynamics
• Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards and state licensing requirements

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Moderate noise levels typical of a preschool setting
• Frequent interaction with young children, including kneeling, squatting, and sitting on the floor
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds
• Possible exposure to communicable illnesses, blood, and bodily fluids
• Use of shared spaces and tools such as restrooms, phones, computers, and classroom equipment
• Some driving may be required for home visits or training

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

ACE is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All employment decisions are based on business needs, qualifications, and merit, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Accommodations are available under the ADA.

Additional Notes

This job description outlines the general responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties may be adjusted based on program needs. ACE maintains a drug-free workplace and promotes a culture of safety in all environments.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.37 - $23.32 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person