Lead Early Head Start Teacher

Inspire Learning. Empower Families. Shape Futures. Are you passionate about early childhood education and committed to helping young children thrive? At Mary Crane Center, we’re looking for dedicated professionals like you to join our Head Start team as aLead Teacher.New hires are eligible for a $5,000 sign-on bonus (terms apply). As a Lead Teacher, you’ll guide children’s growth by creating a safe, nurturing classroom environment where curiosity, discovery, and development are encouraged every day. You’ll also build strong partnerships with families and support a collaborative teaching team—making a difference from the very first day of school. What You’ll Do In the Classroom • Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons using Head Start, NAEYC, and Creative Curriculum standards • Promote positive behavior through effective guidance techniques and modeling • Supervise and interact with children to support their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development • Incorporate family-style dining and healthy routines into the classroom experience • Ensure safety and compliance at all times, including appropriate child supervision and mandated reporting Assess and Document Learning • Conduct assessments using tools like Creative Curriculum Checklists, ESI-R, and Ages & Stages Questionnaires (ASQ and ASQ-SE) • Maintain anecdotal records, portfolios, and documentation panels for each child • Complete and organize paperwork including attendance, meal counts, incident reports, and education folders • Plan and lead transition activities and family reviews Engage Families • Schedule and conduct regular parent-teacher conferences and home visits • Serve as a parent advocate and build trusting, supportive relationships • Communicate classroom expectations, routines, field trips, and program updates • Facilitate parent signatures and documentation as required Lead and Collaborate • Supervise assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers; provide feedback, delegate tasks, and contribute to performance evaluations • Coordinate lesson planning, field trips, and classroom events with the Education Coordinator • Participate in team meetings, center planning, parent policy meetings, and agency committees • Collaborate with Site Directors, specialists, and other staff to ensure program quality and compliance Maintain the Environment • Create a clean, safe, and organized learning space • Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment routinely • Maintain classroom supply inventory and equipment safety Requirements Education & Experience • Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development ORAssociate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development ANDGateways to Opportunity Level 5 ECE and Infant/Toddler Credential Skills & Qualifications • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism • Team-oriented mindset with flexibility and initiative • Strong problem-solving and organizational skills • Comfortable using technology for documentation and communication Physical & Work Environment Expectations • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and engage in physical activity such as bending, kneeling, and reaching • Comfortable in a high-energy, child-centered environment with moderate to high noise levels • Travel between agency sites for meetings, home visits, or classroom support as needed. Why Join Us • Be part of a mission-driven organization serving children and families for over 100 years • Collaborate with caring, passionate educators and leaders • Access professional development, training, and leadership growth opportunities • Make a lasting impact in the lives of children during their most formative years Compensation & Benefits Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options available), paid time off, and other employee wellness programs. Eligibility varies based on position and hours worked. Additional benefit details will be shared during the hiring process. Make a difference where it matters most. Apply today and help us build strong families and strong futures. Mary Crane Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x2866. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $64,000.00 - $68,000.00 per year Benefits: • Dental insurance • Health insurance • Paid time off • Vision insurance Application Question(s): • Do you have a degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development? • Do you have a Gateways to Opportunity Infant/Toddler Credential Level 5? Work Location: In person