Preschool Teacher

Early Childhood Education TeacherGreater Norwalk Head Start / Early Learning Program seeks full-time Early Childhood Education Teacher. This position serves as the Lead Teacher in a classroom of 16 to 20 Head Start / Preschool (3–5-year-old) children. The position is responsible for the planning and implementing of classroom and related activities for preschool children. This position is the indirect supervisor of an Assistant Teacher and a Classroom Aid (CDA Specialist). This position is chiefly responsible for the following core functions of the Head Start program and performs other tasks as needed:Summary:Planning (20%)Program Implementation (50%)Family Partnerships (10%)Communication and Service Coordination (5%)Record Keeping and Recording (5%)Ongoing Monitoring and Self-Assessment (5%)Supervision and Human Resources (5%)Essential Job Responsibilities: PlanningEnsure the written curriculum includes:goals for children's development and learning;the experiences through which children will achieve these goals;what staff and parents can do to help children achieve these goals;the materials needed to support the implementation of the curriculum towards achieving the stated goalsResponsible for the preparation of daily lesson plans. Post them for parents, volunteers and visitors in the classroomDevelop an individual plan for each child including goal setting based on identified needs and prescriptions for objectives and activities to meet established child outcomesProgram ImplementationFollow program curriculum providing developmentally and linguistically appropriate experiences appropriate to age, language and culture of children servedImplement active learning experiences advancing the intellectual and emotional competence of childrenProvide a print rich environment in which children develop literacy, numeric and social skills using increasingly complex language and problem solving abilitiesProvide positive guidance and discipline supporting children as they acquire readiness skills for kindergarten and beyondImplement daily lesson plans in response to children's needs and interests incorporating observations, anecdotal record keeping, knowledge of early childhood development and the key experiencesIntegrate Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for children with disabilitiesProvide children with a consistent classroom routineProvide supervision and ensure the safety and security of children at all times in accordance with Head Start and day care licensing requirementsSupervise and eat nutritionally prepared meals with the children as a curriculum activity, to model good nutrition, proper social skills, and family style meal serviceSupervise all classroom field trips and outdoor activitiesUnderstand regulations associated with prevention of occupational disease and injury, including the exercise of universal precautions and the prevention of contaminationHead Start Employee ExpectationsUphold shared values of the programGive and receive constructive feedbackCooperate with co-workers, providing assistance, information or other support as it is needed to ensure quality service to children and families and to build and maintain positive staff relationshipsActively participate in Head Start community, including staff meetings, mandated trainings, committee meetings, and other program-wide functions as needed, including some evening activitiesRecognize that your job description is service area specific and that a successful employee upholds the overall employment standards outlined in the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and specifically, but not limited to: confidentiality, child abuse reporting, attendance and dependability, appropriate dress, customer service and support to all families, prudent use of program resources, and promoting and maintaining safe work environmentDemonstrate integrity and responsibility by always doing one's personal best, being hones and ethical, following through on commitmentMaintain a commitment to professionalism, continue own professional development and mange performance by taking responsibility for one's own performance, setting goals, eliciting feedback, tracking progress and addressing performance issues promptlyAttend local state and regional initiatives to represent the center and to develop professionallyExhibit flexibility by showing an openness to different and new ways of doing things, and changing strategy when an initial strategy is unsuccessfulShow initiative by identifying what needs to be done and doing it before being asked or before the situation requires itRespect the time constraints of your co-workers by showing up to meetings promptly, attending school daily, and giving advance notice if for any reason you are unable to carry out your responsibilitiesBenefits: Competitive compensation, plus comprehensive fringe benefits package including paid-holidays, paid-time off, health, dental, vision coverage and a retirement program. $1,000 sign on bonus currently being offered.RequirementsSuccessful candidates must possess:AA in Early Childhood Education (minimum)BA preferred with at least twelve credits in early childhoodBA in another field with applicable work experience may be considered.Ability to pass an OEC background check and fingerprinting screening.Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.Competitive compensation, plus comprehensive fringe benefits package including health care coverage and retirement program. Send resume and letter of interest.Health Requirements:Recent fit for duty examination.Ability to lift 40 lbs.Equal Opportunity Employer