Head Start Lead Teacher

Company Overview:

KinderCare Education is a nationally recognized leader in early childhood education and the first early learning provider to receive the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award. KinderCare Education is a mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering children, strengthening families, and supporting educators.

Role and Responsibilities:

As a Head Start Lead Teacher, you will play a key leadership role in providing high-quality early childhood education that promotes school readiness and supports the holistic development of young children.

• Develop and deliver age-appropriate lesson plans that meet the individual developmental needs of each child while adhering to Head Start guidelines and KinderCare’s research-based curriculum.
• Supervise, coach, and support assistant teachers and classroom aides to ensure effective teaching practices and a consistent, positive classroom environment.
• Maintain a classroom that prioritizes the physical, emotional, and social safety of all children while promoting respectful interactions and positive behavior guidance.
• Observe and document children’s progress, conduct developmental screenings and assessments, and use data to adapt lesson plans and teaching methods.
• Build trusting, collaborative relationships with families by sharing progress updates, conducting home visits and conferences, and providing resources that support learning at home.
• Maintain all required records, including attendance, lesson plans, and assessment data, while ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing requirements, and company policies.
• Work closely with center directors, family service staff, and health and nutrition teams to coordinate comprehensive services that support each child’s success.
• Participate in ongoing training, reflective supervision, and professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of one year of experience in a Head Start or early childhood education setting.
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, early childhood development, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Ability to lead a classroom team and mentor assistant teachers effectively.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Must meet all state and federal childcare requirements, including background checks and health clearances.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Physically able to engage with children, lift up to 40 pounds, and participate in indoor and outdoor activities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Head Start classroom leadership experience.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent certification.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/other language) proficiency.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive pay and performance-based incentives.
• Discounted childcare for your family.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, holidays, and wellness programs.
• Career development, credentialing support, and advancement opportunities.

About KinderCare Education:

KinderCare Education is committed to helping children and families build brighter futures. As a Head Start Lead Teacher, you will be part of a supportive environment where children gain confidence, skills, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.