Porter Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience working with preschool-age children (ages 3–5).
• Knowledge of and ability to implement developmentally appropriate preschool programs.
• Effective oral and written communication skills for communicating with diverse groups.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, staff, and others from diverse backgrounds, including children with special needs.
• Ability to work effectively and positively with parents to improve their children’s quality of life.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and continued education through workshops, conferences, and training.
• Ability to provide continuity of care for children ages 3–5.
• Ability to handle sensitive issues while maintaining confidentiality and objectivity.
• Ability to follow directives in a timely manner and maintain flexibility in scheduling.
• Ability to keep accurate student records and education files.
• Ability to work as a team player and assist other employees as needed.
• Ability to develop trusting relationships in clients’ homes and form mutually respectful partnerships with persons served and their families.
• Ability to support people’s capacity for growth and change, maintain appropriate professional boundaries, and intervene appropriately to meet family needs.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license, a good driving record, and the appropriate level of insurance.
• Obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid training or certification within 90 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

• CPR and First Aid certification is preferred.
• Experience working in a nonprofit organization is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform according to the standards set by Head Start, NAEYC, CWLA, Tennessee Day Care Licensing, and Porter-Leath.
• Serve as the primary caregiver for one classroom group, including children with special needs.
• Plan daily classroom enrichment and care activities in accordance with applicable program and licensing standards.
• Implement the Creative Curriculum and Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, using ongoing assessment to individualize instruction for diverse learners.
• Provide instructional leadership and model early childhood education best practices while ensuring classroom fidelity to Head Start Program Performance Standards, NAEYC standards, and state licensing regulations.
• Monitor compliance with federal monitoring protocols and performance benchmarks and contribute to successful federal reviews.
• Work cooperatively with staff to create a positive environment for children, families, and employees.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain accurate attendance, meal-count, educational, and developmental records, including assessments, screeners, and anecdotal notes; keep documentation audit-ready.
• Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring a coordinated plan of care for each family.
• Mentor families as their child’s first teacher and support positive parenting practices.
• Independently plan and conduct structured home visits aligned with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework to support family engagement and goal-setting.
• Keep the Supervisor informed of programmatic issues in a timely and concise manner.
• Conduct ongoing child evaluations, screenings, and assessments.
• Implement and track IEP goals and behavior referrals or support plans in coordination with education and health personnel and mental health consultants.
• Provide a safe, inclusive environment conducive to learning and use Conscious Discipline and Pyramid Model strategies.
• Attend meetings as needed to support student development and outcomes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.