Head Start Lead Teacher for the 26/27 School Year (Start date August 2026)

Job Title:

Head Start Lead Teacher Agency:

Northwestern Illinois Community Action Agency (NICAA) -

Freeport, IL Job Type:

Full-Time (Part-Year) | Hourly |

Non-Exempt Schedule:

Monday - Friday | 37.5 hours/week

Location:

On-site / In-person Reports to:

Education Manager Supervises:

Classroom Teaching Team (Assistants, Aides, Volunteers) Make a Lasting Impact as a Head Start Lead Teacher! NICAA's Head Start program is seeking a dynamic Lead Teacher who is passionate about early childhood education and leadership. This role combines hands-on classroom teaching with staff supervision and curriculum planning, ensuring high-quality learning environments that promote school readiness for children ages 3-5. As a Lead Teacher, you'll not only implement developmentally appropriate curriculum but also mentor and guide a classroom team, all while upholding Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), DCFS licensing, and NICAA's mission. Key Responsibilities Instructional Leadership Plan and deliver engaging, individualized lesson plans using Creative Curriculum Integrate Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals into classroom routines and small group activities Conduct assessments and maintain documentation in Teaching Strategies GOLD (TSG) Foster an inclusive, safe, and developmentally appropriate learning environment Lead classroom transitions, daily routines, and health & safety practices Maintain communication with families via home visits, conferences, and daily interactions Team Supervision & Coaching Provide leadership, guidance, and supervision to the classroom team Delegate responsibilities and ensure team accountability Lead weekly classroom team meetings and submit required documentation Model best practices in early learning and positive guidance Address staff performance issues and communicate concerns to supervisors Coordinate with Education Manager and other specialists for support and resources Compliance & Documentation Ensure compliance with

HSPPS, DCFS

regulations, USDA guidelines, and internal policies Complete and submit accurate child files, attendance, referrals, reports, and lesson plans Participate in program audits, monitoring, self-assessments, and emergency drills Follow NICAA procedures related to referrals, family services, and data tracking Classroom Environment & Safety Maintain cleanliness and safety of the classroom and playground. Conduct and document safety, health, and emergency preparedness checks. Participate in fire/emergency drills and follow DCFS and Head Start guidelines. Ensure compliance with all licensing and program standards. Family & Community Engagement Conduct home visits and parent-teacher conferences Facilitate parent training and family involvement in classroom activities Build relationships with families and support the Family Partnership Agreement process Encourage and document parent participation and child progress

Required Qualifications Education Required:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development OR a degree in Education with

Illinois Pre-K Certification Preferred:

Bilingual (Spanish/English) Experience Minimum 1 year teaching in a licensed early childhood setting Previous Head Start or public pre-K experience strongly preferred Additional Requirements Must be at least 21 years old Valid Illinois Driver's License and reliable transportation Pass DCFS and federal background checks Proof of recent physical, TB test, MMR, and Tdap vaccinations Must obtain/maintain First Aid and CPR certification (Provided through the Agency) Ability to lift 55 lbs. and perform physical duties such as squatting, kneeling, and sitting on the floor Physical & Work Environment Indoor/outdoor classroom environments; exposure to illness/bodily fluids possible Frequent standing, walking, lifting, bending, and active play with children Occasional travel for training, home visits, and community events Professional Development Complete at least 15 clock hours of training annually Attend staff meetings, workshops, and agency-wide professional development Participate in coaching and performance evaluation

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$16.50 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Freeport, IL 61032 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Freeport, IL 61032: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person