Head Start Educator

Wesley House Community Services; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Wesley House Community Services in Louisville, KY is seeking a Head Start Educator to work with children aged 3 to 5 in our developmental center. You will organize the classroom, implement the curriculum with fidelity, and collaborate with families and staff to support each child’s growth.

This role emphasizes a nurturing, inclusive learning environment, adherence to health and safety standards, and ongoing documentation of progress to share with families and the team.

Qualifications

• Preferred associate's or bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Early childhood development principles and age-appropriate teaching strategies.
• Excellent communication and collaboration with families and staff.
• Health and safety regulations knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Organize classroom materials and displays to create an inviting learning environment.
• Foster positive interactions and support emotional development.
• Implement curriculum with fidelity and adapt weekly lesson plans.
• Provide consistent care and ensure a safe classroom atmosphere.
• Monitor progress and communicate with families and team members.
• Maintain a clean and compliant classroom per licensing standards.

Skills

Early childhood education knowledge

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Bilingual skills a plus

Classroom management

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field

Child Development Associate Credential

Job description

Description

Head Start Educator (Children 3 to 5 years old)

Join our dedicated team as a Head Start Teacher and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children in our child development center. We are committed to fostering a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where children of all abilities can thrive. If you are passionate about early childhood education and collaborative teamwork, we invite you to apply and contribute to our mission of supporting children's growth and development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organize classroom arrangements, materials, and displays to create an inviting and effective learning environment
• Foster positive teacher-child interactions that promote emotional support and appropriate behavior management
• Implement the provided curriculum with fidelity, understanding the core concepts while adhering to all guidance and resources
• Prepare and modify weekly lesson plans, including individual and small-group activities tailored to children's needs
• Provide consistent, nurturing care and support to children, ensuring a safe and stimulating classroom atmosphere
• Collaborate with assistant teachers, family members, and staff to achieve positive developmental outcomes for all children
• Monitor and document children's progress, communicating effectively with families and team members
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment in compliance with licensing and program standards

Skills and Qualifications:

• Preferred but not required: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
• Will be provided upon hire: Child Development Associate Credential
• Prior experience working with children aged 3 to 5 years in a classroom setting
• Strong understanding of early childhood development principles and age-appropriate teaching strategies
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members, families, and community partners
• Patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for working with young children
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations related to early childhood education

We value a positive, inclusive workplace culture that encourages professional growth and development. Join us to help shape the future by providing children with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Requirements

• Physical exam and background checks are required for this position.
• Must have a valid state-issued ID; a valid KY driver's license is preferred.
• Must have reliable transportation.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Ability to interact effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Must be honest, dependable and able to meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Demonstrated computer literacy skills, using MS Office applications and other basic data systems including internet navigations
• Bilingual skills are a plus.