Head Start Teacher

Employment Type:

Full-Time Program Schedule:

Academic Year Position (August-June)

Summer Pay:

Includes approximately 7 paid weeks during summer break

Location:

On-site classroom setting

Compensation Range:

$20.37-$23.32 per hour Position Overview ACE is hiring a dedicated Lead Teacher to guide a preschool classroom serving children ages 3 through 5 within our Head Start program. This position is responsible for planning and leading classroom instruction, fostering healthy child development, and building strong partnerships with families. The Lead Teacher works collaboratively with assistant teachers, support staff, and specialists to provide a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that promotes school readiness and social-emotional growth. Wage Structure Tier 1 - $20.37/hour Applicants may qualify with: An associate degree in Early Childhood Education, OR A degree in another field combined with: At least 15 ECE credits, OR A CDA credential Candidates at this level must also have a minimum of three years of experience working with children from birth to age five. Tier 2 - $23.32/hour Preferred candidates may qualify with: Bachelor's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field Early childhood teaching certification or credential Prior preschool and infant/toddler classroom experience Employee Benefits Eligible employees may receive: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Retirement plan with employer contribution Paid holidays, personal days, and earned sick time Tuition reimbursement opportunities Professional development and mentorship support Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employee discounts on select mobile phone plans Employer-paid life insurance Benefits become available according to agency policy and eligibility guidelines. Core Responsibilities Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with Head Start standards Create individualized learning experiences based on developmental assessments Maintain a structured, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate classroom Supervise and support assistant teaching staff Conduct developmental screenings and ongoing observations Document student progress using COPA or related systems Build positive communication with parents and caregivers Complete required family conferences and home visits Support children with varying developmental and educational needs Coordinate with specialists and service providers as needed Ensure classroom safety, supervision, and compliance at all times Assist with enrollment outreach and family engagement initiatives Attend required meetings, trainings, and continuing education activities Follow all confidentiality requirements and mandated reporting procedures Qualifications & Skills Successful candidates should demonstrate: Knowledge of child development and early learning practices Strong classroom leadership and organizational skills Ability to work collaboratively with families and multidisciplinary teams Effective written and verbal communication skills Familiarity with diverse learning needs and inclusive teaching practices Understanding of licensing standards and Head Start expectations Basic technology proficiency, including email and Google Workspace tools Additional requirements include: Valid driver's license and current automobile insurance CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire Physical & Work Environment Expectations This role involves active participation in a preschool classroom environment. Duties regularly require standing, kneeling, bending, lifting up to 25 pounds, and sitting at floor level with children. Employees may also travel locally for meetings, home visits, or training sessions. Equal Opportunity Employer ACE values diversity and inclusion in the workplace and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, experience, and program needs. Reasonable accommodations are available in accordance with applicable law.

Pay:

$20.37 - $23.32 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person