HS Teacher (American Way)

Porter-Leath•Memphis, TN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Site Manager, the Teacher will have the responsibility of being the primary caregiver for one group of children in the Head Start classroom. This role involves planning and implementing daily activities, using research-based curriculum, and ensuring compliance with various educational standards. The teacher will also work with families, conduct home visits, and maintain accurate records. The position requires a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree or higher degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience with preschool age (3-5).
Knowledge of and the ability to implement developmentally appropriate programs for preschool child care.
Effective oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate with diverse groups.
Possess a sincere desire to make a difference in the community and develop professional skills.
Ability to have a positive relationship with children, staff, and others from diverse backgrounds, including children with special needs.
Ability to work effectively and positively with parents to improve the quality of life of their children.
Possess an attitude of continuous improvement.
Possess a commitment to continued education to include regular participation in workshops, conferences, training sessions, etc.
Ability to provide a continuum of care to children ages three (3) to five (5).
Ability to perceive and deal with sensitive issues while maintaining confidentiality and objectivity.
Ability to follow through on given directives in a timely manner.
Flexibility in scheduling.
Keep accurate student records/Education files.
Maintain a valid driver’s license with a good driving record with appropriate level of insurance.
Must be able to obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid training/certification within 90 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

CPR and First Aid certification is preferred.
Experience working in a non-profit is preferred.

Responsibilities

Be the primary caregiver for one group of children in the Head Start classroom, including children with special needs.
Plan daily activities of enrichment and care for one classroom of children according to Head Start, NAEYC, Tennessee Day Care Licensing, and Porter-Leath standards.
Implement intentional, research-based curriculum (Creative Curriculum and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF)), using ongoing assessment to individualize instruction for diverse learners.
Provide instructional leadership and serve as a role model for best practices in early childhood education, ensuring classroom fidelity to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), NAEYC, and state licensing regulations.
Monitor and ensure compliance with federal monitoring protocols and performance benchmarks.
Cooperate with other staff members in creating a positive environment for children, families, and staff.
Collect, analyze, and maintain accurate records of attendance, meal counts, educational and developmental data (including assessments, screeners, and anecdotal notes, etc.) in compliance with federal reporting and school readiness goals.
Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring a coordinated plan of care for each family.
Act as a mentor to families as their child’s first teacher and support best parenting practices.
Independently plan and conduct structured home visits that align with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, strengthening family engagement and goal-setting.
Keep Supervisor informed of programmatic issues in a timely and concise manner.
Conduct ongoing child evaluations, screeners, and assessments.
Contribute to team effort by performing other duties as assigned.
Implement and track individualized education plan (IEP) goals and behavior referrals/support plans in coordination with education and health personnel and mental health consultants.
Provide an environment that is safe and conducive for all children to learn.
Implement Conscious Discipline strategies and techniques.
Implement the Pyramid Model to identify appropriate classroom management techniques.
Attend meetings as necessary to support student development and promote student outcomes.
Develop trusting relationships within a client’s home.
Work as a team player and interact/assist all employees as necessary.
Forge a mutually respectful partnership with persons served and their families, demonstrating conviction about the capacity of people to grow and change, the ability to set limits and maintain the helping role, and the ability to intervene appropriately.