Early Head Start - Teacher

The EHS Center-Based Teacher, under the supervision of the EHS Center-Based Supervisor, is responsible for working with very young children, their parents, other staff, volunteers, and community partners to provide developmentally appropriate quality childcare in a center-based environment that is in compliance with all Head Start Performances Standards, State Licensing Requirements, and other requirements as appropriate.

I. Principle Accountabilities

Caring for Children

1. In partnership with parents, implements a developmentally appropriate center-based program, based on each child’s individual needs.
2. Provides responsive care giving to center-based children.
3. Insures the safety of each child that is assigned to their care, checking toys and equipment daily.
4. Integrates all aspects of the Head Start Program Performance Standards and State Licensing Requirements into the schedule and curriculum of each child in their care.
5. Communicates daily with parents, both verbally and in writing.
6. Provides general direction regarding child-care and classroom procedures to EHS Teacher Assistants and Substitutes.
7. Works with Early Head Start Child Development and Disabilities Coordinator to complete all required screenings, assessments, and reports in a timely manner, with copies of reports being discussed verbally and in writing with parents.

8. Using the screening reports, and working with the family, develop and implement written children’s goals, integrating any previous plans, and assist in implementing the IFSP in the case of dually enrolled First Steps children.

9. Using the Family Partnership Agreement, assist parents to plan and facilitate written goals, as needed, as outlined in the Parent, Family, and Community Engagement Outcomes Framework.

10. Completes 2 home visits and 2 parent conferences for each child annually.

11. Encourage and respect the particular ethnic and cultural background of all EHS and Carey Services families, children, clients and staff.

Other Requirements

1. Completes all paperwork requirements in an accurate and timely manner.
2. Completes additional educational requirements as required by regulations.
3. Participates in ongoing training activities as assigned.
4. Adhere to all plans, policies, and procedures of Carey Services and Early Head Start.
5. Promote agency-wide safety and housekeeping as well as take a proactive approach to preventive maintenance and delivery of quality service.
6. Be willing to adapt to flexible schedules based on EHS needs.
7. Other duties as assigned.

Must have, at a minimum, a CDA or comparable credential, and have been trained (or have equivalent coursework) in early childhood development with a focus on infant and toddler development. An Associate or Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education is preferred.

Must demonstrate competency to provide effective and nurturing teacher/child interactions, plan and implement learning experiences that ensure effective curriculum implementation and use of assessment and promote children’s progress across the standards described in the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Ages Birth to Five and applicable state early learning and development standards, including for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate. Must be willing to pursue additional education as required by ongoing regulations.

Must possess nurturing skills, be able to implement positive and anticipatory guidance with children, and be able to move and play with small children both in and out of doors, including routine tasks such as diaper changing, feeding, moving toys, washing laundry and dishes. Must possess the skills to communicate in a meaningful and appropriate manner with infants and toddlers. Must be highly organized, detail oriented, and able to communicate well both verbally and in writing. Also must possess the following qualities: Adaptability and Flexibility, Teamwork, Initiative, Planning and Organization, Problem Solving.

Must be able to bend, stoop, twist, stand, sit (including sitting on floor) and hold and move small children weighing from 5-50 pounds. Must have the sensory capacities to successfully execute essential job functions.