Job Description
Summary Head Teacher position responsible for implementing high-quality early childhood education programs aligned with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS) and Documentation and Observation for Teaching System (DOTS). Create and maintain a developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development for preschool-aged children.
Duties Curriculum and Instruction
- Design and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with CT ELDS
- Utilize DOTS for ongoing assessment and documentation of children's development
- Create lesson plans incorporating multiple teaching methods and experiential learning
- Modify teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning needs
- Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects
- Lead activities promoting physical, mental, and social development through games, arts, music, storytelling, and field trips
- Support emerging literacy through regular reading activities and language development
- Foster development of basic skills including color, shape, number, and letter recognition
Classroom Management
- Create and maintain a safe, clean, and engaging learning environment
- Arrange indoor and outdoor spaces to facilitate creative play and motor skill development
- Establish and enforce consistent rules and procedures for maintaining positive behavior
- Prepare and organize age-appropriate materials and equipment
- Supervise and support teacher assistants and volunteers
- Maintain proper inventory of classroom supplies and materials
Assessment and Documentation
- Implement DOTS assessment system to track student progress
- Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by state regulations
- Observe and evaluate children's performance, behavior, social development, and physical health
- Prepare regular progress reports and documentation
- Identify children showing signs of developmental concerns and implement appropriate interventions
Family and Professional Collaboration
- Communicate regularly with families regarding child progress and development
- Partner with families to support children's learning and development
- Collaborate with teaching team and specialists to support children with special needs
- Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities
- Contribute to program development and evaluation
- Maintain professional competence through ongoing training
Health and Safety
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations
- Support children's development of self-help skills and personal hygiene
- Follow proper procedures for meals and snacks
- Maintain clean and sanitized learning environments
- Implement proper health and safety protocols
Requirements Bachelor's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education from a regionally accredited institution
OR Bachelor's degree or higher in any field from a regionally accredited institution
PLUS current Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) Early Childhood certification endorsement
OR Bachelor's degree or higher in any field from a regionally accredited institution
PLUS OEC's 12 DEFINED foundational Early Childhood Education credits
OR (Accepted until June 30, 2030 only) Bachelor's degree or higher in any field
PLUS any 12 Early Childhood Education credits
- OR Currently enrolled and actively working toward a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education with approved plan of study and completing at least 9 credits per academic year
Nice To Haves - Brightwheel software
- Children's educational software
- Desktop computers
- Educational board games
- Educational puzzles
- Educational toys
- Google Workspace
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft Word
- High energy.
- Ability to work well with others.
- Strong oral and written communication skills and basic computer skills.
- An understanding of child development.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Infant/child CPR and First Aid certification.
- Must clear full background check and must pass health screening.
Benefits - Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience
- Comprehensive benefits package (if applicable to position type)
- Professional development support and tuition assistance opportunities
- Positive, supportive work environment with growth opportunities
Job Tags
Full time, Work at office,