Lead Headstart Teacher

Avid Management Resources; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Paid time off

Retirement or 401k matching

Professional development support

Job summary

Avid Management Resources is seeking a dedicated preschool lead teacher in Columbus, Ohio, committed to delivering high-quality early childhood education. The role involves leading a classroom of children aged 3-5, mentoring staff, and ensuring compliance with educational standards. A degree in Early Childhood Education and 2-3 years of experience is required. The position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development, all within a supportive team culture dedicated to impacting children's lives positively.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in a preschool classroom, preferably within a Head Start setting.
• Strong knowledge of preschool child development (ages 3-5).
• Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Lead a preschool classroom under the Head Start model.
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
• Build strong relationships with children and families.

Skills

Child development knowledge

Instructional strategies

Communication skills

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Job description

Career Opportunities with Avid Management Resources

A great place to work.

FACCES careers in partnership with Avid Management

Our program's mission is to deliver high-quality early childhood education to children ages 3-5. We are driven by a mission to ensure our children, families and community have a strong foundation for school and life. Our well-supported program offers structure, team collaboration, professional growth and a culture that values educators as professionals.

What You’ll Do:

Lead a classroom of preschool-aged children (3-5 years) under the Head Start model – overseeing curriculum implementation, developmental monitoring, family engagement and classroom leadership.

Plan, organize and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences aligned with Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework and Ohio Early Learning & Development Standards.

Build strong, positive relationships with children and families: communicate daily, hold family conferences, partner with families on goals and transitions.

Mentor and coordinate with assistant teachers and classroom aides to maintain a high-quality, collaborative classroom environment.

Ensure compliance with licensing, Head Start program standards, state regulations, classroom ratios, health/safety protocols and documentation/reporting expectations (e.g., child assessments, home visits).

Participate in program-wide team meetings, professional development, planning and continuous improvement efforts.

What We’re Looking For:

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development or related field.

Minimum [2-3+] years’ experience in a preschool classroom, preferably within a Head Start or similar high-quality early childhood setting.

Strong knowledge of preschool child development (ages 3–5), effective instructional strategies for early learners, and familiarity with family engagement practices.

Excellent communication skills — able to engage children, partner with families, collaborate with team members.

Warm, nurturing, professional temperament; able to lead a dynamic classroom, support team members, and maintain high quality standards.

Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain), valid state background check, and ability to meet licensing/Head Start staff requirements.

Commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and contributing to a mission-driven program.

What You’ll Get:

Competitive salary with recognition for your education level and experience.

Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, paid time off, retirement or 401k matching).

Professional development support: trainings, credential support, growth opportunities (e.g., become Curriculum Specialist or Program Lead).

A structured, high-quality program that values educators: supportive leadership, strong team culture, excellent curriculum and resources.

The satisfaction of making a meaningful difference: shaping school-readiness and life readiness for underserved children and partnering with families in Central Ohio.

Bonus/performance incentives or retention stipend (if applicable).