Teacher - Head Start (Federalsburg)

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non‑profit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low‑income households and communities. MRDC serves as Caroline, Cecil, and Kent Counties’ official Community Action Agency.

About the role

The Head Start Teacher develops and implements individual education plans for preschool children, helping them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their stage of development. The teacher works collaboratively with the Site Supervisor and MRDC team.

Responsibilities

• Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum for preschool children per guidance from the Education Coordinator, the ECE Specialist, and other leaders, individualizing instruction as necessary.
• Perform duties with an understanding of the Head Start Performance Standards.
• Refer children suspected of having special needs or challenging behavior to appropriate staff.
• Implement behavior plans and IEPs designed with the team, families, schools, and mental health professionals, emphasizing the least restrictive environment possible.
• Guide and facilitate activities of the children, including daily activities, field trips, and selecting/arranging equipment and materials in the classroom.
• Cooperate with other staff and classroom groups to maintain smooth functioning of the center, adapting as needed to meet children’s needs.
• Maintain a comprehensive and ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations, work samples, and developmental assessments.
• Foster a positive learning atmosphere that encourages creativity, curiosity, and exploration.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.
• Supervise children at all times and implement positive behavior management strategies.
• Attend training sessions, workshops, and staff meetings to enhance professional skills.
• Ensure files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained.
• Think, concentrate, and interact positively with others; arrive promptly each day; work under stress and meet all deadlines.
• Perform related work as required or assigned by the Site Supervisor, Director, or Deputy Director.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field.
• Must pass criminal background check in Maryland and surrounding states.
• At least one year of early childhood classroom teaching experience preferred.
• Experience working with children preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of early childhood development principles.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Cultural competency and the ability to work with diverse families.

Physical Demands and Working Environment

• Classroom setting with young children (ages 3‑5); occasional home visits or community engagement activities.
• Significant periods of standing, walking, kneeling, sitting on the floor, or crouching in a typical school environment.
• May require lifting 25 lb – 50 lb.

Terms of Employment

• Eleven (11) month position; subject to change to meet the demands of the center and the MRDC organization.

Pay

Salary is based on education and experience: $26.54 – $30.38 per hour.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term Disability
• Training & Development