Head Start Teacher

Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 45,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing training

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is seeking a Head Start Teacher to support early childhood education and family engagement in a nurturing classroom. You will lead activities aligned with Head Start goals and collaborate with staff to ensure a positive learning environment.

Requirements include a Bachelor's or Associate degree in related fields, 2+ years' experience with young children, and ability to lift 50 lbs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or related Human Services field.
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or related Human Services field.
• 2+ years of experience working with young children preferred
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practices.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead a high-quality early childhood education program aligned with Head Start goals, philosophy, and curriculum.
• Conduct developmental screenings and assessments; design individualized learning activities.
• Create a welcoming classroom that supports physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development.
• Supervise and mentor staff and volunteers in implementing daily activities.
• Build strong partnerships with parents through communication, home visits, and involvement in classroom activities.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and healthy learning environment.
• Keep accurate records and complete required reports for each assigned child.
• Collaborate with Family Service Workers and Managers to ensure quality program delivery.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Skills

Passion for children

Leadership

Communication

Confidentiality

PBIS

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education

Job description

Description

Full-Time | Non-Exempt

Make a difference every day in the life of a child.

Join our dedicated Head Start team and help young children grow, learn, and thrive in a positive, nurturing classroom environment. As a Head Start Teacher, you’ll play a key role in preparing children for school success while supporting families and modeling the values of respect, collaboration, and compassion.

What You’ll Do

• Plan and lead a high-quality early childhood education program aligned with Head Start goals, philosophy, and curriculum.
• Conduct developmental screenings and assessments; design individualized learning activities to meet each child’s needs.
• Create a welcoming, engaging classroom environment that supports children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development.
• Supervise and mentor teacher assistants, center aides, student teachers, and volunteers in implementing daily activities.
• Build strong partnerships with parents through regular communication, home visits, and family involvement in classroom activities and field trips.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and healthy learning environment.
• Keep accurate records and complete all required reports for each assigned child.
• Collaborate closely with Family Service Workers, Managers, and other staff to ensure quality program delivery.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities to maintain and grow your skills.
• Represent Head Start positively in the community and promote mutual understanding between staff and families.

What We’re Looking For

• Passion for working with young children and supporting family engagement.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to guide support staff and volunteers.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism at all times.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs., kneel, stoop, bend, reach, and sit on the floor daily.
• Commitment to the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and teamwork across all program areas.
• Dependable, organized, and proactive in planning and problem-solving.

Why Join Us

• Rewarding, mission-driven work that directly impacts children and families in your community.
• Supportive, collaborative team environment.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Opportunities to grow your career in early childhood education.

Requirements

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or related Human Services field, OR
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or related Human Services field.
• 2+ years of experience working with young children preferred
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practices.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and engage in active play with children.
• Regularly bend, kneel, sit on the floor, and reach overhead.
• Must pass a physical exam and background checks.

Equal opportunity employer

Salary Description

$21.46-$23.35 depending on education