Preschool Teacher

Job Details: Job Location: Service Center 2 HS

• Indianapolis, IN, Salary Range: $27.30 - $29.67Hourly, The Head Start Preschool Teacher is responsible for providing a high-quality early learning experience for children ages 3-5 in a Head Start classroom. The Teacher works collaboratively with an Assistant Teacher, families, and support staff to promote children's school readiness, social-emotional development, and overall success. This position creates a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment while implementing curriculum, conducting assessments, and building strong family partnerships. Essential Responsibilities Classroom Instruction & Child Development Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning experiences aligned with Head Start School Readiness Goals. Foster children's cognitive, language, literacy, social-emotional, and physical development. Create engaging learning opportunities through small-group activities, circle time, read-alouds, hands-on exploration, and play-based learning. Provide individualized support based on each child's strengths, interests, and developmental needs. Utilize ongoing observations and assessment data to guide lesson planning and instruction. Complete quarterly child assessments and use results to individualize learning experiences. CLASS™ Teacher-Child Interactions Create a positive emotional climate where children feel safe, valued, and supported. Encourage child autonomy, self-expression, and positive peer interactions. Establish clear behavioral expectations and implement positive behavior guidance strategies. Maximize instructional time and classroom engagement. Promote higher-order thinking through questioning, problem-solving, feedback, and language-rich interactions. Maintain high-quality teacher-child interactions consistent with CLASS® expectations and program standards. Classroom Management & Safety Maintain a safe, healthy, clean, and organized learning environment. Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, childcare licensing regulations, and program policies. Conduct daily health and safety inspections of the classroom and outdoor spaces. Follow all health, sanitation, handwashing, and universal precaution procedures. Maintain active supervision of children at all times. Supervise mealtime activities and support healthy eating practices. Assessment & Documentation Complete developmental and social-emotional screenings within required timelines. Develop and implement Individualized Learning Plans for children. Support and implement Individual Education Programs (IEPs) and other individualized services. Maintain accurate child and family records, assessment documentation, and required reports. Complete all required reports and documentation in a timely manner. Family Engagement Build positive, respectful, and productive relationships with families. Conduct two home visits and two parent-teacher conferences annually. Encourage family participation in classroom and program activities. Collaborate with Family Services staff to support family goals, attendance, and school readiness efforts. Maintain ongoing communication with families regarding their child's progress and development. Teamwork & Professional Development Collaborate with Assistant Teachers, substitutes, and multidisciplinary support staff. Participate in reflective coaching, professional development, staff meetings, and program trainings. Support classroom staff with curriculum implementation and continuous improvement efforts. Participate in case conferences and team planning meetings as needed. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

AA/AS in Early Childhood Education OR BA/BS in Early Childhood Education -OR- state awarded preschool teacher certification with experience teaching preschool aged children-OR- BA/BS in related fields with at least fifteen college courses in Early Childhood Education plus experience teaching preschool aged children. BA Highly preferred.

Physical exam and background checks are required for this position. Travel required locally up to 10% of the time for work-related meetings and functions. Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.