Teacher , Head Start

HS-Dyersburg, TN
1400 Hornbrook St
Dyersburg, TN 38024, USA

Position Title:

Head Start Teacher
Employee Type:
Full-Time Regular
Supervisor

Title:

Center Director or Manager, Education & Inclusion
Division:
Head Start, U.S. Programs

Save the Children has been fighting for children’s rights for over 100 years. We work in some of the world’s hardest‑to‑reach places – over 100 countries, including the U.S. Joining Save the Children means creating positive, irreversible change for children and the future we all share.

The Head Start Teacher develops and implements individual and group educational plans for preschool children, designed to promote social‑emotional, physical and cognitive growth. The Teacher is responsible for day‑to‑day operations of a Head Start classroom and must verify legal compliance with federal, state and local regulations. They create and nurture strong partnerships with families and ensure program quality remains at the highest standards.

The Manager of Education & Inclusion is the direct supervisor. The Teacher may also supervise Teacher Assistants and receive support from Program Aides and Volunteers.

As a front‑line representative, the Teacher ensures safety and security of children and families, adhering to Save the Children’s values.

• Develop and implement individualized and group lesson plans to promote all developmental areas and improve readiness for school.
• Ensure a safe, healthy and developmentally‑appropriate learning environment.
• Build effective relationships within the organization, children and families.
• Maintain accurate records on paper and in designated online systems.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.
• Plan, conduct and document observations, assessments and screenings; maintain a portfolio assessment for each child.
• Inform Manager of important issues.
• Develop skills of Teacher Assistants, Program Aides and Volunteers.
• Engage with children during all activities; provide constant supervision indoors and outdoors.
• Use playground as an extension of the classroom; ensure safety.
• Provide a balanced program of child‑initiated and teacher‑directed activities for individual, small group and large group learning.
• Assist children during mealtime to teach social and self‑help skills.
• Meet physical needs, assist with health and personal habits.
• Encourage parent involvement in education.
• Create inventory of classroom equipment and supplies annually.
• Plan and conduct parent conferences (minimum
  2) and home visits (minimum
  2).
• Develop professional development plan in cooperation with Manager.
• Ensure program complies with Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Maintain constant alertness and implement active supervision.
• Mobilize and document matching‑in‑kind activities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Associate degree in child development, early childhood education or related field with preschool teaching experience.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with individuals and teams.
• Effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills; problem solving and time management.
• Ability to follow directions and take initiative.
• Knowledge of Head Start/Early Head Start program.
• Ability to relate sensitively with children and keep confidential information.
• Participation in professional development training and first aid/pediatric CPR certification as required.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages used by children and families).

• Physical requirements:
  
  ability to perform medium‑to‑heavy physical work, lift up to 50 lbs occasionally, 20 lbs frequently.
• Clear pre‑employment background check; pass all health requirements prior to employment.
• Valid driver’s license if required to operate a motor vehicle for certain essential functions.
• Preference for former Head Start/Early Head Start parents for the position.

• 11 paid holidays + 10 days winter break + 5 days spring break + 5 hours PTO.
• Competitive health, dental and vision coverage; employer‑paid short and long‑term disability.
• Health Savings Account…