NMCAA Early Head Start Teacher - Fisher Building

The Early Head Start Teacher is responsible for fostering the social, emotional, and cognitive development of infants, toddlers, and two-year-olds through developmentally appropriate educational practices, while ensuring a safe and nurturing classroom environment. In collaboration with the EHS co-teacher, the role involves planning, implementing, and evaluating individualized learning plans, supporting family engagement, and adhering to program standards to promote school readiness and comprehensive child development.

Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Recruit and select eligible children in collaboration with the Family & Center Specialist (FCS), ensuring full enrollment and providing orientation.
• Track attendance in the Child Plus Attendance app and address any barriers to regular attendance. 
• Ensure the classroom follows Head Start Performance Standards and create a developmentally appropriate environment using the Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, and Twos.
• Submit weekly lesson plans with the Early Head Start (EHS) co-teacher, using child outcome data and parent input.
• Implement Conscious Discipline strategies to manage behaviors and ensure timely completion of child assessments and screenings.
• Provide monthly newsletters with updates and family engagement opportunities.
  Ensure a safe, healthy environment following state licensing and Head Start guidelines, including sanitation and nutrition standards.
• Assist with food transfer and engage children in mealtimes, following required health and allergy protocols.
  Complete mental health and child health referrals and implement mental health plans as needed. 
• Provide written communication to parents and collaborate with FCS for family engagement activities. Develop and monitor school readiness goals and work with FCS to link families to community resources.
• Support children with disabilities by implementing Individualized Action Plans (IAPs) and supporting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)/Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs).
• Work with families and staff to plan transitions based on the child’s progress and needs.
• Ensure timely completion of required certifications, trainings, and professional development.
• Attend all required meetings, collaborate with the EHS co-teacher on classroom planning, and maintain confidentiality.
• Support the submission of in-kind documentation and notify FCS of supply needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned and maintain flexibility in the work schedule.

Education and Experience:

Associate degree in early childhood education or child development (infant/toddler focus) preferred, or a minimum Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in infant/toddler development. 

Experience working with low-income/at-risk families and collaborating with community members.