Preschool Teacher for Head Start
About the Role
Head Start is committed to providing quality education and care for children and their families. Central Missouri Community Action is hiring Preschool Teachers for our Head Start centers in Columbia, MO. As a nurturing teacher, you will positively influence the lives of children aged 3 to 5 years, fostering their growth and development through evidence‑based early childhood education.
Responsibilities
- Create an inclusive and engaging learning environment for children of all abilities.
- Lead developmentally appropriate activities to foster growth in all childhood areas.
- Maintain a trusting relationship with children and their families to ensure a conducive learning environment.
- Ensure a secure, health‑conscious, and well‑organized setting that accommodates the needs and requirements of children.
Requirements
- An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education; or an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field with completed Early Childhood Education coursework or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
- Experience teaching preschool‑age children (required).
- Daycare, preschool, or childcare work experience is helpful.
- Prefer experience working with low‑income families and children.
- Experience integrating Early Childhood Development theory into daily classroom activities is preferred.
- Ability to tailor approaches to meet the individual needs of children.
Benefits
- Generous paid time off, including 10 paid holidays.
- Excellent medical, dental, life, and vision insurance.
- Retirement plan.
- 4‑day work week (Tuesday – Friday).
- Two‑week paid winter break.
- Opportunities for advancement.
- Professional development opportunities.
- CMCA swag and spirit!
Pay
$16.31 to $19.57 per hour
Schedule
10‑hour day shift, Tuesday through Friday (4‑day work week).
About Central Missouri Community Action
CMCA is part of a national network of community action agencies founded in 1964. Our mission is to build relationships to empower people, strengthen resilience, and improve the quality of life for all members of the community. With over 230 staff members across eleven counties, we strive to make a positive difference every day. Employees receive competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, and growth opportunities to build rewarding and successful careers.