Preschool Lead Teacher - Head Start Program (Full Year Program) - NEW BUILDING AND GREAT PAY / BENEFITS

JOB DESCRIPTION

TITLE : Lead Teacher (Birth to Five)

DEPARTMENT : ECD

REPORTS TO : Center Manager

FLSA STATUS : Non-Exempt

PRIMARY FUNCTION

Responsible for planning, implementation, and administration of a Head Start classroom, including daily operation, supervision of staff and volunteers, and adherence to the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (DEEC) regulations, the Head Start Performance Standards as well as the Head Start Act (OHS) regulations

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities) :

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Perform the functions of lead teacher position with a strong understanding of the Head Start performance standards and the component plans; and thorough knowledge and application of Developmentally Appropriate practices : Cooperate with other staff and classroom groups to maintain the smooth functioning of the center, which at times may require changes to meet the needs of the children;
• Mentor, train and coach assistant teachers in developmentally appropriate practices following policies and procedures.
• Prepare and conduct bi-monthly and annual evaluations of assistant teacher.
• Train / work with assistant teaching staff on an ongoing basis to raise the scores of the following tools : Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS), Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS) and Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS).
• Meets with Assistant Teacher / Teacher 2x each month for documented supervision meetings where the following topics will be covered : review of classroom observations, policies and procedures, teamwork, Professional Development Plans (PDPs), CLASS, ECERS, QRIS, Teaching Strategies Gold outcomes
• Supports the PDP for assistant teacher / teacher based on individual educational and professional needs and observations.
• Ensures assistant teacher is compliant with program policies and are working together to hold necessary case conferences and documenting appropriately.
• Provides guidance and direction to assistant teacher through daily contact and team meetings.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with agency policy and legal requirements.
• Ensures safety is a priority in performing all job responsibilities.
• Exhibits warm, positive and respectful interactions with all of the children in their care.

Classroom Management / Curriculum :

Compliance and Record-Keeping :

Enhance personal and professional growth :

Skills / Knowledge Required

Physical Demands

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. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee regularly is required to stand, walk, sit, use hand to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must be able to lift up to 50lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.