Head Start Preschool Teacher

Porter-leath; Foote Homes (TN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Porter-Leath in Tennessee is seeking a Head Start teacher to serve as the primary caregiver for a class of preschool children (ages 3-5). You will implement the Creative Curriculum within Head Start and document progress using assessments, screeners, and IEP-goal alignment.

Knowledge of ELOF and state licensing is essential. You will foster family engagement, model best practices, and collaborate with staff to ensure a safe, inclusive learning environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience with preschool age (3-5) is required.
• CPR and First Aid certification is preferred.
• Experience working in a non-profit is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform according to the standards set forth by Head Start, the NAEYC, CWLA, Tennessee Day Care Licensing and Porter-Leath.
• Assume responsibilities as the primary caregiver for one group of children that includes children with special needs.
• Plans daily activities of enrichment and care for one classroom of children according to the standards set forth by Head Start, NAEYC, Tennessee Day Care Licensing, and Porter-Leath standards.
• Implement intentional, research-based curriculum (Creative Curriculum and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF)), using ongoing assessment to individualize instruction for diverse learners.
• Provide instructional leadership and serve as a role model for best practices in early childhood education, ensuring classroom fidelity to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), NAEYC, and state licensing regulations.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with federal monitoring protocols and performance benchmarks, contributing to program-wide success in federal reviews.
• Cooperatively work with other staff members in creating a positive environment for children, families, and staff.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain accurate records of attendance, meal counts, educational and developmental data (including assessments, screeners, and anecdotal notes, etc.) in compliance with federal reporting and school readiness goals; ensure documentation is audit-ready for ongoing monitoring.
• Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring a coordinated plan of care for each family.
• Act as a mentor to families as their child’s first teacher.
• Support and encourage best parenting practices.
• Independently plan and conduct structured home visits that align with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, strengthening family engagement and goal-setting in alignment with child development plans.
• Keep Supervisor informed of programmatic issues in a timely and concise manner.
• Conduct ongoing child evaluations, screeners, and assessments.
• Contribute to team effort by performing other duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field

CPR and First Aid certification (preferred)

Job description

Porter-Leath in Tennessee is seeking a Head Start teacher to serve as the primary caregiver for a class of preschool children (ages 3-5). You will implement the Creative Curriculum within Head Start and document progress using assessments, screeners, and IEP-goal alignment.

Knowledge of ELOF and state licensing is essential. You will foster family engagement, model best practices, and collaborate with staff to ensure a safe, inclusive learning environment.