Teacher -WS Head Start

Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation•White Swan, WA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Teacher plays a vital role in providing comprehensive services to children and families within the Yakama Nation Head Start Program. With responsibility for a classroom of up to twenty children between the ages of three to five, this position requires professional training and coursework in early childhood education. A deep understanding of child development and the principles of early childhood education is essential for success in this role. The primary objective is to deliver high-quality educational and related services to young children and their families. All work is performed in strict compliance with the Head Start Performance Standards, placing a strong emphasis on early childhood education, health, special services, child safety, nutrition, family services, and mental health. Collaboration with colleagues and other stakeholders is essential to ensure the seamless delivery of integrated services that promote the holistic development of children and families. By creating engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experiences, fostering positive relationships, and supporting families, the Teacher contributes to the overall growth and well-being of the children and the community.

Requirements

Associate of Arts Degree (in Early Childhood Education or equivalent to a major/specialization)
Two years of experience in the education field.
Must have experience working with young children.
Must be able to manage confidential information.
Must follow Yakama Nation and YN Head Start Code of Conduct.
Must have current First Aid/CPR care or able to obtain one within 6 months of hire.
Must have current food handler's card or able to obtain one within 6 months of hire.
Must pass a pre-employment background check.
Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving permit.
Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Nice To Haves

Preference given to current or former Head Start Parent(s) who meet qualifications.
Preferred Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, or related field (with Early Childhood Education credits equivalent to a Major/Specialization).

Responsibilities

Reviews Yakama Nation Head Start program mission, values, and policies with staff, volunteers, and families.
Utilizes culturally responsive teaching strategies, by incorporating the Yakama Language and Culture into instructional practices, providing explicit instruction and modeling to children.
Implements culturally relevant activities and materials that reflect the community's heritage and traditions, fostering a sense of cultural pride and identity among the children.
Demonstrates commitment to the program mission, values, and policies in performance of daily duties.
Follows all applicable federal, state, local, and tribal policies, regulations, and procedures.
Ensures compliance with applicable policies, procedures, and regulations governing a Head Start classroom.
Develops and implements an appropriate learning environment for up to twenty children, ages three to five.
Implements the use of developmentally appropriate research-based curricula.
Prepares and implements appropriate lesson plans in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards and applicable guidelines.
Provides appropriate instruction to children in all developmental domains.
Engages in regular communication and collaboration with specialists, coordinators, and program consultants to ensure the seamless delivery of services and support.
Actively participates in team meetings, sharing insights, and contributing to the development of individualized plans for children with diverse needs.
Provides instruction and direction to teacher assistants and substitutes during classroom activities.
Establishes and maintains positive, productive, and collaborative relationships with staff, peers, and parents.
Demonstrates leadership skills while serving as a role model.
Participates in parent committee meetings and activities.
Participates in family/parent engagement and education activities.
Schedules and conducts regular parent conferences.
Makes regular home visits to each child's home.
Assists with educational transition activities for children.
Communicates effectively with other staff, including specialists, coordinators, and program consultants, to ensure appropriate services and support is provided.
Assists with recording, collecting, and maintenance of center in-kind records.
Prepares and maintains required daily and monthly activity reports using appropriate forms.
Ensures classroom meets all applicable health and safety standards.
Participates in program data collection and entry.
Participates in program self-assessment activities.
Participates in professional development activities to establish and/or maintain employee qualifications.
Performs other assigned duties.