Primary Purpose:

• Provide children with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed to fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.  Ensure compliance with all Department policies, division procedures, Head Start Program Performance Standards, Child-

Care Licensing Minimum Standards and other local, state, and federal regulations.

Qualifications:

 Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree from an accredited university in Early Childhood Education or related field with at least 18 credit hours in Early Childhood Education (PG E-5); or
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field, with at least 18 credit hours in Early Childhood Education (PG E-4); or
• Infant Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential (PG E-3); or
• Enrolled in an Infant Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) program with coursework completed within 12 months of hire date and CDA credential achieved within 24 months of hire date (PG E-2).

Special Knowledge/ Skills:         

• Knowledge and experience in the philosophy and practices of Early Head Start or comparable child development programs, early childhood education and Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to use a variety of software applications, including Microsoft Word and Excel
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking skills a plus

   Experience:

• Minimum two years of classroom experience working with children ages 0 to 3 in an Early Head Start program or other early childhood education program or completion of an internship or practicum program.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Role modeling a sound knowledge of program mission/goals, philosophy, and child growth and development practices.
• Screen assigned children within the first 45 days of enrollment.
• Create an instructional environment that is engaging, positive and interactive.
• Develop and implement lesson plans and individualized goals based on the curriculum.
• Conduct ongoing assessments to support individual instruction, monitor progress, and share information with parents.
• Maintain adequate supervision to ensure children’s health, welfare, and safety.
• Conduct semi-annual home visits and parent-teacher conferences to discuss the child's individual progress and solicit parent input on goals for children.
• Work collaboratively with parents, colleagues, and community partners to support HCDE Early Head Start’s school readiness goals for children, families and the community.
• Ensure that children’s files are complete and accurate.
• Maintain confidentiality of information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Hourly Rates:

• PRE-CDA: $17.20-$21.32
• CDA: $20.06-$24.56
• Associate: $22.93-$29.49
• Bach: $25.80-$32.36