Early Learning Center Head Teacher (Preschool)

Summary

Head Teacher Toddler position responsible for implementing high-quality early childhood education programs aligned with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS) and Documentation and Observation for Teaching System (DOTS). Create and maintain a developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development for preschool-aged children.

Duties

Curriculum and Instruction

• Design and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with CT ELDS
• Utilize DOTS for ongoing assessment and documentation of children's development
• Create lesson plans incorporating multiple teaching methods and experiential learning
• Modify teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning needs
• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects
• Lead activities promoting physical, mental, and social development through games, arts, music, storytelling, and field trips
• Support emerging literacy through regular reading activities and language development
• Foster development of basic skills including color, shape, number, and letter recognition

Classroom Management

• Create and maintain a safe, clean, and engaging learning environment
• Arrange indoor and outdoor spaces to facilitate creative play and motor skill development
• Establish and enforce consistent rules and procedures for maintaining positive behavior
• Prepare and organize age-appropriate materials and equipment
• Supervise and support teacher assistants and volunteers
• Maintain proper inventory of classroom supplies and materials

Assessment and Documentation

• Implement DOTS assessment system to track student progress
• Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by state regulations
• Observe and evaluate children's performance, behavior, social development, and physical health
• Prepare regular progress reports and documentation
• Identify children showing signs of developmental concerns and implement appropriate interventions

Family and Professional Collaboration

• Communicate regularly with families regarding child progress and development
• Partner with families to support children's learning and development
• Collaborate with teaching team and specialists to support children with special needs
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities
• Contribute to program development and evaluation
• Maintain professional competence through ongoing training

Health and Safety

• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations
• Support children's development of self-help skills and personal hygiene
• Follow proper procedures for meals and snacks
• Maintain clean and sanitized learning environments
• Implement proper health and safety protocols

Requirements

• A current CDA plus 12 or more ECE credits
• Or
• A Bachelor degree or higher specific to an early childhood concentration from any regionally accredited higher education
• institution
• OR
• A current Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) appropriate Early Childhood Certification Endorsement
• OR
• A Bachelor degree specific to an early childhood concentration from the OEC Approved College Listing AND a B level ECTC (Early Childhood Teacher Credential)
• OR
• A Bachelor degree in any other field AND 12 credits or more in early childhood or child development from any college not listed on the approved list; AND successful completion of the B level Early Childhood Teacher Credential
• (ECTC) Individual Review Route

Nice To Haves

• Brightwheel software
• Children's educational software
• Desktop computers
• Educational board games
• Educational puzzles
• Educational toys
• Google Workspace
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft Word
• High energy.
• Ability to work well with others.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and basic computer skills.
• An understanding of child development.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Infant/child CPR and First Aid certification.
• Must clear full background check and must pass health screening.