Preschool Group Teacher

Preschool Group Teacher (Head Start- ages 3-5)

Department: Early Childhood

Location(s): Bronx, Manhattan or Brooklyn

Reports To: Site Director

Salary Range: $43,232.64 - $75,891.91 based on credentials.

Benefits include: family/ health insurance; 24 vacation days (includes planned program closures), life insurance, 401k plan- 5% Employer Contribution, 4 personal days and 12 sick days; sign-on bonus $3,500 and Retention Bonus $1,500; Scholarships and ongoing professional development opportunities

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm, 9am-5pm, and 10am-6pm. Schedule is assigned based on program needs.

Job Summary: This position serves as a Preschool Teacher for a dynamic and engaging classroom serving children ages 3 to 5 years old. Working collaboratively with a co-teacher to create a joyful, inclusive, and stimulating classroom where 3- to 5-year-olds discover the wonder of learning through play, creativity, and connection. Partner closely with families, celebrate every milestone, and help lay the foundation for kindergarten readiness and lifelong success. Build meaningful relationships with children and families, and believe learning happens best through play, exploration, and encouragement. Inspire curiosity, foster independence, and make a lasting impact during some of the most important developmental years.

Education, Experience, and Skill Requirements:

• Required Bachelors Degree in early childhood or related field (elementary education, nursery to 6th grad elementary education, special education, student with disabilities- Birth to 2nd or 1st to 6th Grade, child psychology, child development, or general education) and on a study plan to obtain initial certification in Birth- 2nd grade.
• Master's degree in Early Childhood Education and NYS Certification in Birth-2nd grade preferred
• Passionate about early childhood education
• Minimum two years of experience working with young children preferred
• Ability to work with children and families with diverse developmental, social, or cultural needs
• Ability to maintain written records and manage time effectively
• Ability to foster positive, professional relationships with families
• Basic computer literacy (email, Microsoft Office)
• Ability to lift 35 pounds

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• Clearance through DOI Fingerprint Screening, NYS Central Registry, Sex Offender Registry clearance, 3 reference checks, physical examination with updated TB test, Varicella, Tdap, MMR (fees may apply)
• Obtain Mandated Reporter training certificate (every 2 years) and comply with agency's policy and procedure regarding identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect
• Obtain First Aid/CPR and Preventive Infectious Diseases Certificate within the first year of employment
• Meet all employee health requirements in Article 47 (DOHMH) and Head Start Performance Standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the direct supervision of the center director, the group lead teacher shall be responsible for the following:

• Use a deep understanding of child growth and development to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and success for every child. Collaborate with related service areas and maintain strong communication with families, staff, and community partners to ensure children receive comprehensive and supportive care.
• Design individualized learning plans that celebrate each child's unique strengths, interests, and developmental needs. Establish meaningful goals and create engaging activities using Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD assessments to support positive child outcomes and lifelong learning.
• Implement thoughtful and engaging daily lesson plans that respond to children's interests, developmental progress, and individual learning styles. Incorporate observations, anecdotal documentation, and knowledge of early childhood development to create joyful, hands-on learning experiences that encourage exploration and growth.
• Build warm, trusting, and collaborative relationships with families by creating a welcoming environment where parents feel valued, supported, and actively involved in their child's educational journey.
• Work closely with Family Advocates and support teams to share important information and coordinate services that meet the individual needs of children and families. Participate in case conferences and collaborative discussions to ensure every child receives the support needed to thrive.
• Maintain accurate and organized records that support ongoing assessment, individualized planning, and program success. Collect meaningful observations and anecdotes that highlight children's growth, achievements, and developmental milestones.
• Continuously monitor and evaluate classroom child outcomes three times per year to strengthen curriculum planning and teaching practices. Collaborate with the Education Coordinator to make thoughtful adjustments that enhance learning experiences and child success. Conduct parent-teacher conferences twice yearly to celebrate progress and establish shared goals with families. Complete developmental and behavioral screenings within 45 days of enrollment and provide referrals for additional support services, including disabilities and mental health resources, when needed.
• Work collaboratively with the teaching team to analyze classroom child outcomes two to three times annually to strengthen instructional practices and improve student success. Participate in coaching opportunities and professional development trainings to continuously grow as an educator.