Head Start Teacher

Overview

Head Start Teacher at BVCAP Head Start
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This description outlines responsibilities and qualifications for a Head Start Teacher responsible for implementing Head Start Performance Standards for 3- to 5-year-olds in a classroom setting.

Implements Head Start Performance Standards to 3- to 5-year-olds in a classroom setting. Responds to events in the classroom and outdoor play. This includes the physical ability to move quickly to respond to children who are very active and may need redirection or restraint to ensure safety. Applies Early Childhood Development theory in daily activities to maintain a safe learning environment.

• Classroom Time / School Readiness: excellent communication with parents, teachers, and staff; maintain patience and understanding when working with children and interacting with parents; supervise and monitor children and respond to crisis or emergencies; guide children’s behavior in positive ways; adhere to a consistent schedule including group experiences, transitions, and activities; encourage exploration, problem solving, cooperation, and open-ended questions; promote English language development for English- and Dual-Language learners;
  
  release children only to authorized individuals; follow agency curricula and prepare materials for developmentally appropriate learning experiences; assess needs and collaborate with appropriate agencies to support children and families; adapt curriculum to meet individual goals as identified in IFSPs; maintain integrated curriculum plans reflecting cultural influences and Head Start components; establish weekly goals for individual and group plans; participate in integrated service meetings for collaborative services.

• Promote family and volunteer engagement; support families as primary teachers; support safety, health, financial stability, and life goals; maintain regular communication based on family needs; conduct required parent/teacher conferences and home visits to assess progress and share strategies; assist in planning family events; coordinate with Family Advocates and other coordinators to address family needs; provide dual-language learning opportunities in the home.

• Utilize agency tools for ongoing assessment and documentation; complete federal, local, state, and agency documentation accurately; document family contacts and home visits; monitor and report child abuse.

• Attend and participate in trainings and professional development; attend meetings; engage in ongoing self-assessment of job performance; responsibilities may vary by program model and site needs.

• Educational requirements:
  
  Associate degree in early childhood education or a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field with equivalent coursework; transcripts required to validate educational requirements.
• Complete and maintain annual training hour requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
• Computer skills (word processing, email).
• Must have a valid license.
• Must obtain CPR & First Aid certification within 30 days of employment.
• Position contingent upon successful completion of a federal background check.

The physical demands include standing, reaching with hands and arms, talking/hearing, walking, sitting, using hands to handle, grasp, or feel, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and occasional lifting up to forty-five pounds; vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception.

I have read and received a copy of my job description and understand that changes may be made in accordance with performance standards, policies, and regulations. This description is not a contractual obligation.

This job description conveys information essential to understanding the scope of this position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, duties, or working conditions. Head Start reserves the right to change duties and responsibilities at any time.