EASTCONN’s Early Head Start is a federally funded program that provides support and resources to pregnant women, children ages birth to 3, and their families. EASTCONN offers home-based and center-based programs in Windham County. Windham Public Schools administers center-based programs for the Windham area and Stafford Public Schools administers a home-based program in Stafford and surrounding towns. Benefits of Early Head Start include strong family involvement and support with child development, education, health, nutrition, mental health, and safety. Income guidelines apply. 

To learn more about our program, click here.

Job Description:

• Assist in implementing age-appropriate curriculum. Encourage self-esteem and independence for the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of each child. 

• Ensure that health, safety, and nutritional education is integrated into the overall curriculum planning. 

• Provide for the care, supervision, and safety of center children, keeping classroom and equipment clean, neat, and orderly. 

• Demonstrate understanding for the needs of children and families from economically and culturally diverse backgrounds.

• Puts into practice a program consistent with Head Start Performance Standards and NAEYC criteria.

• Implements program in a manner consistent with EASTCONN mission, vision, code of ethical conduct, policies and procedures.

• Have the physical ability and stamina to interact with children for up to 7 hours a day; e.g. to move and react quickly, to lift and/or carry a child, to sit on the floor or use child size furniture, participate in gross motor and playground activities, etc.

• Understand and implement Office of Early Childhood licensing regulations. 

• Experience working with families to support early learning.

• Ensure children are developing sound health and nutritional habits in daily routines and in curriculum through modeling. 

• Read, write, and communicate effectively. 

• Participate in workshops, trainings, and professional development, as assigned.

Qualifications: Minimum of a CDA (Child Development Associates) Certificate plus two years relevant work experience.

• If the candidate does not have a CDA or 12 ECE credits, he/she will be put on an education plan. The candidate must acquire the appropriate credentials within 18 months of hire. 

•  Applicant will be responsible to start the application/enrollment process within 6 months of employment. (timeline will be noted on education plan)

• Candidate will be accountable to pay for the expenses, unless scholarship is available, as well as maintain the validity of the CDA. 

Working Conditions: Work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.

At EASTCONN, we believe that diversity is key to our success. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, including those who may not meet every listed qualification. Your passion, drive, and perspective are what matter most to us.

As an EEO/AA employer, EASTCONN provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and caste, which is protected by our policies.

AA/EOE

M/F/D/V