Early Head Start Teacher

About the role

The Early Head Start Teacher is responsible for planning and organizing a teaching environment by implementing curriculum and developing lesson plans for children 0 to 3. The position reports to the Center Director and operates under moderate supervision with limited latitude for the use of independent judgment, discretion and initiative.

Who We Serve: Opportunities serves thousands of people annually in Williamson & Burnet Counties. Working cooperatively with other agencies, we are an advocate for those who might not otherwise have a voice in the community. We are dedicated to providing services to help those in need achieve a better, more productive life.

Our Mission: To empower children, families, and seniors to achieve and maintain independence by partnering with area organizations to provide education, nutrition, and community support.

Our Vision: A healthy, educated community in which all people live independently and with dignity.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety in performing all job responsibilities; adhere to all safety policies in alignment with Head Start/Day Care licensing standards.
• Coordinate, schedule and complete parent-teacher conferences and individual home visits with co‑Teacher.
• Assist with daily educational activities communicating with parents about student enrichment and experiences.
• Assess and document the health and behaviors of children.
• Plan, prepare and present daily instructional activities/lesson plans coordinating with co‑teacher, Center Director, Program Coordinators and/or parents/guardians.
• Assist with implementing an individualized curriculum for all children including IEP/IFSP goals.
• Conduct individualized activities to meet the needs of each child as planned.
• Organize time and materials to effectively manage classroom, attend meetings and complete required reports/documentation.
• Integrate activities from all content areas into the classroom.
• Complete children’s observations; keep necessary computerized reports/documentation weekly or as planned.
• Provide customer service in reception, greet and direct visitors at the site as needed.
• Review weekly lesson plans with Education Coordinator (CSS Instructional Coach) securing appropriate approvals.
• Follow step‑by‑step activities as outlined in content area plans and policies and procedures.
• Maintain and protect confidential information pertaining to staff, students and families.
• Complete child observations; retaining reports/documentation on a weekly basis or as instructed by supervisor.
• Maintain custodial duties in classroom and Head Start Center.
• Maintain Point of Service, family style meals.
• Model toothbrushing skills daily.
• All employees are expected to adhere to OWBC ethics expectations.
• Must be able to cooperate and work effectively with others.
• Must be diplomatic, honest and fair.
• Regular and punctual attendance is an essential function of the position.
• Perform other duties as assigned or as they become apparent.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to operate various word‑processing software, spreadsheets, and database programs.
• Ability to work effectively with others.
• Ability to assess the health and behaviors of children by sight and sound.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external customers.
• Ability to ensure compliance with regulatory agency requirements and policies.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and utilize effective time management techniques.
• Ability to respect confidentiality at all times.
• Ability to carry out multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to follow instructions furnished in verbal or written format.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education and Training: High school diploma or GED.
• Experience: One (1) year of related experience.
• Licenses/Certifications: Valid Texas driver’s license; obtain and keep current Adult and Pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications; current Child Development Certificate.

Physical / Mental Tasks (F= Frequent, O=Occasional, R=Rarely)

• F Standing – required when making copies, meeting people, moving from work area to work area.
• F Handling – reports, vehicles, laptop, keys.
• F Hearing/Talking/Listening – communicate with employees and others, answer the telephone, participate in meetings, give presentations.
• F Fine Dexterity – operate computer, calculator, to write, mouse, projector tools.
• F Sitting – performing work at desk, while reading, writing, in meetings, driving, riding in vehicle to sites and meetings.
• O Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling – plug in equipment, when connecting PC components, plugging in cords, open lower desk drawers.
• F Walking – from vehicle to site, area to area, to copier.
• F Bending/Twisting – to reach files, reports, handle paper, reach drawers.
• F Grasping/Holding – holding binders, phones, tablet, work resources.
• F Balancing – standing, reaching, driving.
• F Lifting/Carrying – report binders, paper, laptop, supplies up to 45 lbs.
• F Vision – to drive and assist individuals in medical need.
• F Pushing/Pulling – open/close file/copier drawers, open & close doors, rolltop carriers.
• F Foot Controls – driving.
• F Driving – scheduled & unscheduled trips to and from meetings and sites.
• R Other.
• F Reaching – to answer phone, reach files, reports, plug in laptop.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Vision insurance
• Wellness resources
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• 15 Paid Holidays
• Paid Education (Upon Approval)
• Medical Insurance
• 403(b) plus employer match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Chipper‑Assistance in Student Loan Forgiveness and Lower Payments