Head Start Teacher

Acelero Learning•Philadelphia, PA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Head Start Teacher (Lead Teacher) leads a classroom of children ages 3–4 and works collaboratively with an assistant teacher, family members, and other staff to support positive outcomes for children of all abilities. The role implements a child-centered curriculum and learning environment that promotes development across domains, positive social interaction, active engagement, and self-motivation. The teacher observes and documents children’s progress to individualize curriculum, responds to children’s needs and interests through daily lesson plans, and integrates Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for children with disabilities. The role also builds partnerships with families, provides developmentally, linguistically, culturally, and age-appropriate classroom experiences, maintains consistent routines, and ensures children’s safety and security in accordance with Head Start and daycare licensing requirements. The position is with Acelero Learning Philadelphia at its Allegheny Center, Jefferson Center, or N 17th St Center locations. The stated annual salary is $47,395.01, in addition to a comprehensive benefits package. The anticipated start is Fall 2026.

Requirements

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or equivalent coursework, or otherwise meet the requirements of the Head Start Act.
Physical exam and background checks are required.
Local or long-distance travel for work-related meetings and functions, up to 10% of the time.
Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

Lead a Head Start classroom of children ages 3–4 in collaboration with an assistant teacher, families, and other staff.
Implement a child-centered curriculum and learning environment that promotes positive social interaction, active engagement, self-motivation, and development across all domains.
Address challenging behaviors by observing possible causes, implementing preventive measures, teaching new social and communication skills, and partnering with families to support the child at home.
Observe children and use anecdotal notes to document progress and individualize curriculum.
Create partnerships with families to establish positive interactions in the program, school, and home.
Provide classroom experiences that are developmentally, linguistically, culturally, and age-appropriate for the children served.
Provide a print-rich environment that supports literacy, numeracy, social skills, increasingly complex language, and problem-solving abilities.
Implement daily lesson plans in response to children’s needs and interests, incorporating observations, anecdotal record keeping, early childhood development knowledge, and key experiences.
Integrate Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for children with disabilities.
Provide children with a consistent classroom routine.
Supervise children and ensure their safety and security in accordance with Head Start and daycare licensing requirements.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions up to $800 annually.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care expenses.
401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match and immediate vesting.
Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance and basic life insurance.
Up to $500 per year in professional development reimbursements.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling and mental wellness support.
Wellness programs, including virtual fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes.
Pet insurance, legal assistance, identity theft protection, and employee discount perks.
Average of 5 weeks of paid time off during the first year of employment.
Career growth and professional development opportunities.