About The Position

Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and providing a stimulating, comprehensive learning environment for infants, toddlers, or preschool children. The role works under the administrative supervision of the School Leader and/or Assistant School Leader and under the day-to-day direction of the assigned Lead Teacher. The employee may assume Lead Teacher responsibilities when the Lead Teacher is absent and performs classroom activities in accordance with Federal Early Head Start and Head Start Performance Standards and applicable regulatory standards. The position has a full-time schedule; an example schedule given is Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Requirements

  • Meet the applicable education and credentialing pathway for the classroom assignment.
  • For a 4-year-old classroom, qualify through one of the listed pathways: an associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related degree; an associate degree or higher in any subject plus a Preschool CDA or Certificate of Mastery (or be on an IDP to complete the CDA within one year); Para Qualified status plus a Preschool CDA or Certificate of Mastery (or be on an IDP to complete the CDA within one year); or an associate degree or higher in any subject, at least 12 early-childhood college credit hours as defined by NAEYC Standards, and 480 hours of professional preschool teaching experience, which may be retroactive within the past five years.
  • For a 3-year-old classroom, qualify through one of the listed pathways: an associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related degree; a Preschool CDA or Certificate of Mastery (or be on an IDP to complete the CDA within one year); an associate degree or higher in any subject with at least 12 early-childhood college credit hours as defined by NAEYC Standards and 480 hours of professional preschool teaching experience, which may be retroactive within the past five years; or an associate degree or higher in any subject plus a Preschool CDA or Certificate of Mastery (or be on an IDP to complete the CDA within one year).
  • For a 0–36-month classroom, qualify through one of the listed pathways: an associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related degree; an associate degree or higher in any subject with at least 12 early-childhood college credit hours as defined by NAEYC Standards and 480 hours of professional infant/toddler teaching experience, which may be retroactive within the past five years; or an Infant/Toddler CDA or Certificate of Mastery. Infant and toddler development training is also required within one year of hire or transfer.
  • Para Qualified means 48 college coursework hours or a score of 455 or better on the Praxis exam.
  • Infant and toddler training is equivalent to four Modules of PITC training; employees must comply within their first year of employment or transfer.
  • Teachers in OECP classrooms who are on an IDP to obtain a CDA cannot move into an EHS room until the plan is complete and the CDA is earned.
  • Extended Care employees and substitutes are expected to obtain the same credentials as Teaching Assistant IIs and must be placed on an IDP within 30 days of hire; the Site Director determines the I/T or preschool credentialing track.
  • A Certificate of Mastery must be obtained from the State of Oklahoma. A related degree refers to Child Development, Psychology, or Human Development and Family Science with an emphasis in Child and Family.
  • Experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool children.
  • Demonstrated successful interpersonal relationship skills to maintain effective working relationships with staff, vendors, clients, visitors, and contractors.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions and to read, interpret, and present information efficiently and effectively.
  • Ability to audit records accurately and ensure compliance with written or oral guidelines.
  • Ability to take initiative, multitask, and work well under pressure.
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive data, records, files, and conversations.
  • Able to stand, stoop, walk, lift, and carry objects; able to lift and carry 50 pounds.
  • Able to work in all weather conditions and navigate regular traffic hazards; frequent driving is required.

Nice To Haves

  • Bilingual ability is preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Comply with Head Start Performance Standards education content mandates, program assessment requirements, and service plans.
  • Assist with daily classroom operations as a substitute and in the Extended Care Program.
  • May assist peers with developing weekly lesson plans.
  • Use the CAP-selected classroom support model to assist with classroom management.
  • May assist with home visits and parent conferences.
  • Work cooperatively with CAP employees, Family Support personnel, volunteers, and collaborative partners.
  • Build and maintain positive parent/teacher relationships to encourage parent involvement.
  • Assist with required documentation, including Monthly Reports, attendance, meal counts, family contacts, and child injury reports.
  • Complete the Lead Teacher’s responsibilities in the Lead Teacher’s absence.
  • Perform other duties as assigned or requested.
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