Lead Head Start Teacher 3-5

About the role

As a Lead Teacher in our Head Start program, you'll design and implement developmentally appropriate lessons that support children's intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth. You'll foster strong family partnerships, encourage parent involvement, and help prepare children for lifelong success in school and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons aligned with Head Start, NAEYC, and Creative Curriculum standards
• Model positive behavior and use effective guidance techniques
• Supervise and engage with children throughout daily routines and transitions
• Promote family-style dining and healthy habits
• Ensure a safe and supportive learning environment at all times
• Assess and document learning using tools like ESI-R, Creative Curriculum Checklists, and Ages & Stages Questionnaires
• Maintain detailed anecdotal records, portfolios, and documentation panels
• Prepare and organize materials and coordinate enriching field trips
• Communicate regularly with families through conferences, home visits, and daily updates
• Encourage family involvement in classroom and program activities
• Advocate for children and families, connecting them to community resources
• Supervise assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers, providing guidance and feedback
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and agency committees
• Collaborate with Site Director, Education Coordinators, and Head Start staff on program quality and curriculum planning
• Maintain the environment by keeping classrooms clean, organized, and stimulating
• Sanitize toys, equipment, and surfaces routinely
• Monitor and maintain classroom supplies and safety

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education AND Gateways ECE Credential Level 5 OR Registered Professional Educator License (PEL) with Early Childhood Endorsement
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong leadership, organizational, and time-management skills
• Collaborative team player committed to quality early childhood education
• Computer proficiency for documentation and communication
• Bilingual Spanish preferred

Skills & Qualifications

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong leadership, organizational, and time-management skills
• Collaborative team player committed to quality early childhood education
• Computer proficiency for documentation and communication
• Bilingual Spanish preferred

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee wellness programs

Compensation & Benefits

Mary Crane Center offers a competitive salary range of $67,000.00 to $73,000.00 annually, plus a $1,500 sign-on bonus for new hires. Additional benefits and details will be provided during the hiring process.

Why Join Us

Be part of a mission-driven organization supporting children and families. Work alongside a collaborative and passionate team. Access ongoing training, professional growth, and meaningful partnerships. Help shape futures, starting with the support children and families need today.

Physical & Work Environment

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and perform physical activities such as bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Comfortable working in a busy, child-focused environment with moderate to high noise levels
• Travel between multiple agency sites for meetings, trainings, and classroom support as needed

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law.