Teacher - Head Start (Aberdeen)

Maryland Rural Development Corporation•Aberdeen, MD

About The Position

The Head Start Teacher develops and implements individualized education plans that support children's social, intellectual, physical, and emotional development in ways appropriate to their developmental stages. The teacher works collaboratively with the Site Supervisor and the MRDC team to provide preschool education in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards. This is an eleven-month position, subject to change to meet the needs of the center and MRDC. The role is based in a classroom with children ages 3–5 and may include occasional home visits or community engagement activities. Salary is $26.54–$30.38 per hour, based on education and experience.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Demonstrated success accomplishing the listed duties.
Must pass criminal background checks in Maryland and surrounding states.
Knowledge of early childhood development principles.
Strong classroom management skills.
Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
Cultural competency and ability to work with diverse families.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of early childhood classroom teaching experience preferred.
Experience working with children preferred.

Responsibilities

Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum for preschool children, individualizing instruction as needed and following guidance from education leaders.
Refer children suspected of having special needs or challenging behavior to appropriate staff.
Implement behavior plans and IEPs developed with the team, families, schools, and mental health professionals, emphasizing the least restrictive environment possible.
Guide and facilitate children's activities, including daily activities and field trips, and select and arrange classroom equipment and materials.
Collaborate with staff and classroom groups to maintain smooth center operations, adapting as needed to children's needs.
Maintain a comprehensive, ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations in each area, work samples, and developmental assessments, following designated procedures.
Foster a positive learning atmosphere that encourages creativity, curiosity, and exploration.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom.
Supervise children at all times and use positive behavior management strategies.
Attend training sessions, workshops, and staff meetings to enhance professional skills.
Ensure files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained.
Perform related duties as required or assigned by the Site Supervisor, Director, or Deputy Director.
Arrive promptly every workday, work under stress, meet deadlines, and interact positively with others.