HEAD START TEACHER

W H Community House•West Haven, CT

3h•$19 - $20

About The Position

The West Haven Community House is currently seeking dedicated Teachers to work in our Head Start Program. If you are passionate about working with children and making a difference, this could be the right job for you! Works as a team with the Head Teacher to implement Head Start Performance Standards related to the operation of the classroom. In addition, ensures that the classroom adheres to NAEYC and other applicable standards. Follows program protocol for holistic delivery of services to children and families.

Requirements

Requires a minimum of a CDA and at least two years teaching experience in early childhood setting
Ability to obtain and maintain first aid certification.

Responsibilities

Assume the leadership of the classroom in the absence of the Head Teacher.
By example, set the professional and caring atmosphere of the center.
Provide co-teachers, other Head Start staff, parents, student teachers and volunteers with information regarding early childhood principles and the Head Start Performance Standards.
Ensure that the physical space and materials provided fosters optimal growth and development and adheres to Head Start and licensing standards including health and safety requirements.
Actively participate in curriculum planning to meet program protocol and Performance Standards. Be aware of the intellectual, physical, emotional, and social needs of each child and plan with parents and staff for effective curriculum and other services to meet those needs.
Be responsible for daily preparation of program activities.
Work as a team with the teaching staff to conduct required home visits, parent teacher conferences and assessments concerning the children. In addition, provide necessary documentation including but not limited to individual goals, weekly lesson plans, observations and evaluations of the children. Keep records and documentation as assigned by the Head Teacher.
Work collaboratively with team members to support the work of case management/consultation and other team meetings, including outside meetings such as Planning and Placement Team Meetings.
Work with all staff to coordinate service delivery and to plan for particular children or families that may need more extensive interventions or more comprehensive approaches to service delivery. Provide support and advocacy for the child.
Coordinate with all other Head Start staff to integrate comprehensive services for Head Start children and families. Provide families with information about Head Start services and activities.
Work closely with other Head Start staff to facilitate the transition of children into, out of and within the Head Start Program.
Work closely with and share information with supervisor and team members to coordinate services to children and families. Become familiar with program policies and activities to encourage and support the home-school connection.
Ensure that children with disabilities and their families have access to all Head Start services.
Be responsible for children's health and safety at all times during program hours.
Maintain high level of confidentiality regarding Head Start children, families, staff and program operations in accordance with agency and program policies and ensure for the confidentiality of all records and materials.
Adhere to the framework of professional responsibilities set forth in the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.
Develop and maintain friendly and professional relationships with agency and program staff, parents and community partners and encourage participation in program and agency activities.
Ensure that all emergencies and accidents are reported to the Head Teacher and documented appropriately.
Follow program protocol as it relates to mandated reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect.
Practice universal precautions at all times.
Actively participate in all required meetings including, but not limited to, Case Consultation, Individual Action Plans, Peer Teacher Meetings, supervision meetings, etc.
Attend agency and Head Start staff meetings, workshops and training sessions as necessary to comply with licensing and Head Start professional development requirements.