Head Start Itinerant Teacher: North Region

Job Description

Duties and Responsibilities:

Classroom Management and Instruction:

• Develop and implement a curriculum that supports the cognitive, social, and emotional growth of children.
• Prepare daily lesson plans that align with Head Start educational guidelines and developmental standards.
• Use a variety of teaching techniques to address the diverse needs of children, including those with special needs.
• Foster a positive, inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration, critical thinking, and peer interaction.
• Conduct regular assessments and observations to track children's progress and adjust activities as needed.

Child Development and Assessment:

• Observe, document, and assess children's development using program-approved assessment tools.
• Develop individualized progress plans (IPPs) for children with identified special needs in collaboration with support staff and parents.
• Collaborate with parents and other staff to support the developmental needs of each child.

Parent and Family Engagement:

• Maintain regular communication with parents/guardians regarding their child's progress, behavior, and needs.
• Encourage parent participation in classroom activities and educational workshops.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and home visits, as required, to build strong home-school connections.

Classroom Environment:

• Create and maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming classroom environment that is conducive to learning.
• Organize classroom materials and maintain an orderly learning environment.
• Ensure that health, safety, and nutritional requirements are met according to program standards.

Collaboration and Professional Development:

• Work collaboratively with Teacher Assistants, Family Advocates, and other Head Start staff to deliver comprehensive services.
• Attend professional development sessions, workshops, and training as required.
• Stay informed about early childhood education best practices, Head Start guidelines, and state licensing requirements.

Compliance and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate records, including attendance, health screenings, and developmental assessments.
• Follow all Head Start regulations and guidelines, including documentation of lesson plans, assessments, and parent interactions.
• Ensure the classroom is in compliance with all licensing and safety requirements.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field
• Associate's degree in early childhood education or a related field and coursework equivalent to a major relating to early childhood education with 3 years experiences in an early childhood setting.

Experience :

• Prior experience teaching in an early childhood setting, preferably within a Head Start or similar program.
• Experience working with diverse families and communities.

Knowledge and Skills :

• Strong understanding of early childhood development.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage a classroom and address the needs of children with varying abilities.
• Proficiency in using assessment tools and classroom technology.

Additional Requirements:

Working Conditions:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.