Lead Teacher

About the role

The Lead Teacher will ensure that all children reach developmentally appropriate milestones through the implementation of evidence-based curricula, individualized support, and high-quality learning environments. They will focus on preparing children for kindergarten and life success, while meeting Head Start Performance Standards and site-specific funding regulations.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Understand and promote the organization’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values to align with organizational policies and procedures. Oversee additional teachers and volunteers in the classroom.
• Curriculum Implementation: Promote high-quality teaching and learning leading to children’s school readiness. Provide responsive care through individualized planning, instruction, and supervision. Plan and establish an environment fostering trusting and accepting relationships.
• Classroom Preparation: Prepare and organize materials and resources needed for daily lessons, activities, and projects. Set up and maintain an inviting and conducive learning environment.
• Small Group Instruction: Conduct small group activities under the guidance of the Education Director to reinforce lesson concepts and provide additional support. Monitor and assess student progress during small group sessions.
• Individualized Instruction: Work one-on-one with students requiring extra assistance, ensuring personalized attention to meet their specific learning needs. Collaborate with the assisting teacher to implement individualized education plans (IEPs).
• Behavioral Support: Support the team in maintaining a positive and inclusive classroom environment by reinforcing classroom rules and expectations. Address behavioral challenges using positive reinforcement strategies and seek guidance when necessary.
• Technology Integration: Support the integration of technology tools into the curriculum, helping students with educational software, and managing technology resources within the classroom.
• Record Maintenance, Screening and Assessment: Responsible for maintaining accurate educational records and portfolios on each child. Implement child observations, screenings, and assessments. Observe and document students’ development to request additional support.
• Family Engagement: Encourage parent involvement and communication through various methods. Facilitate meetings with families and participate in home visits, Parent/Teacher conferences, Open Houses, and/or Family Days.
• Data Analysis: Collect, analyze, and report on data related to student progress and classroom activities to inform continuous improvement efforts. Utilize data to identify trends, gaps, and areas for improvement.
• Professional Development: Attend all agency offered trainings, workshops, In-Service days, and/or All-Staff conferences. Maintain certification requirements and proof of attendance in professional activities. Support the growth of the center and participate in program-wide goal setting and self-assessment.
• Health and Safety: Adhere to all state and city licensing requirements, teacher-child ratios, and CPR/first aid, Child Abuse Mandate, Foundations for Health and Safety, Blood Borne Infection, and Mental Health First Aid certification. Maintain a safe and healthy environment for children aligned with CDC, DOHMH, and ECERS guidance.

Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications: Must meet Federal Head Start requirements, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Article 47 regulations, and Department of Education requirements.
• Special Circumstance: For DOE-funded 3-K and Pre-K classrooms, candidates must hold at minimum a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and commit to obtaining the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Initial Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) within three years of hire.
• Study Plan Approval: Candidates must meet one of the following criteria for DOHMH Study Plan Approval: completed at least 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Childhood Education, or a related field; enrolled in a program to obtain a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education; or hold an associate’s degree in early childhood education with a practicum noted on the transcript and enrolled in a program to obtain a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
• NYSED Certification: Candidates must meet the following educational criteria based on their role level: Bachelor’s degree in a Related field, Child Psychology, or Child Development; Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and hold one of the following Initial/Professional/Transitional B NYSED teaching certifications; Master’s degree in early childhood education and hold one of the following Initial/Professional NYSED teaching certifications.
• Key Competencies: Bilingual in English/Spanish (written and verbal); two years’ experience working with infants and toddlers, and children with special needs; professional approach with effective communication skills; reflective on own teaching practice and willing to develop and increase capacity; Pre-K or Toddler CLASS Reliability Certificate preferred.

Benefits

Children's Aid is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. The incumbent is expected to work a flexible schedule as determined by the department's needs to facilitate effective collaboration and departmental processes.