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Head Start Program Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

The Head Start Teacher provides high-quality early education and child development services ... program to obtain a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education. - Desired/Preferred ...

Description The Head Start Teacher provides high-quality early education and child development ... a program to obtain a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education. Desired/Preferred ...

The Head Start Teacher provides high-quality early education and child development services ... a program to obtain a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education. Desired/Preferred ...

Head Start Teacher

Ocala, FL · On-site

$16.59 - $18.44/hr

Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR), and more, our dedicated professionals work with families and caregivers ...

Head Start Teacher

Ocala, FL · On-site

$16.59 - $18.44/hr

Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR), and more, our dedicated professionals work with families and caregivers ...

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Head Start Program information

See Florida salary details

$22K

$58.4K

$102.4K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Florida is $58,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,600.00 and $69,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Head Start Program?

A Head Start Program is a federally funded initiative in the United States that provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. The goal of the program is to help prepare young children, typically ages 3 to 5, for success in school and beyond by supporting their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Head Start programs are free for eligible families and often include comprehensive services such as health screenings, nutritional meals, and family support. The program also encourages strong family engagement and community partnerships. Services are delivered in a variety of settings, including centers, schools, and in some cases, homes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Start Program director?

To thrive as a Head Start Program Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program management, and compliance with federal Head Start regulations, usually supported by a relevant degree and administrative experience. Familiarity with child assessment tools, data management systems, and state licensing requirements is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal skills help foster a positive environment for staff, children, and families. These capabilities ensure effective program delivery, regulatory compliance, and improved outcomes for underserved children and communities.

What are some common challenges faced by staff in a Head Start Program, and how are they typically addressed?

Staff in a Head Start Program often face challenges such as managing classrooms with diverse needs, engaging families from various backgrounds, and meeting federal and state compliance standards. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing professional development, strong team collaboration, and access to resources like family liaisons and mental health consultants. Additionally, staff receive support from administrators and are encouraged to participate in regular training to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

What is the difference between Head Start Program vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectHead Start ProgramPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsEarly childhood education certification or CDA, background checksEarly childhood education certification or CDA, background checks
Work EnvironmentHead Start centers, community settings, sometimes home visitsPreschools, childcare centers, private or public schools
Employer & Industry UsageFederal-funded program serving low-income familiesPrivate, public, or charter schools providing preschool education

While both roles focus on early childhood education, Head Start Program staff work within federally funded programs emphasizing comprehensive services for low-income children and families. Preschool Teachers typically work in various educational settings, focusing on classroom instruction. The main difference lies in program scope, funding, and target populations.

What qualifications do you need to be a Head Start Program teacher?

A Head Start Program teacher typically needs a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, with many programs requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field. State licensing or certification requirements may also apply, and experience working with young children is often preferred.

Will Head Start Program employees get paid?

Yes, employees of the Head Start Program are typically paid for their work, which may include roles such as teachers, family service workers, and administrative staff. Compensation varies based on position, experience, and funding, and employees often need relevant certifications or qualifications. The program generally offers a regular schedule with pay periods consistent with other employment standards.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Head Start Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,435 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Head Start/Child Care Teacher

Bible-Based Fellowship Church of Temple Terrace

Temple Terrace, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

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Job description

Bible-Based Fellowship Church of Temple Terrace

Position Description:
I. Position Title: Head Start - Teacher
II. Position Supervisor Title: Manager of Head Start Program
III. Position Description Summary: Performs duties planning and implementing educational activities for pre-school aged children in the Head Start Program or Child Learning Center that comply with federal performance standards.
IV. Position Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Performance Rating

  • Plans, develops and implements daily lesson plans that provide for educational and enrichment activities for preschool age children that meet federal performance standards.
  • Plans and arranges classrooms into distinctive learning areas that promote an effective learning environment.
  • Screens and assesses preschool aged children to determine developmental/educational needs and develops and implements individual education plans that comply with federal performance standards.
  • Monitors meal and snack periods, classroom and restroom activities, and playground activities to ensure a safe environment for young children.
  • Documents children's progress or lack thereof and completes all required manual and computerized forms and reports in accordance with federal requirements.
  • Initiates referrals to the appropriate Lead Teacher by submission of required paperwork.
  • Plans classroom activities for parent and community volunteers.
  • Attends and participates in workshops and other meetings to acquire and disseminate information.
  • Communicates with parents through parent conferences, written correspondence, telephone, and home visits to apprise them of the child's progress, upcoming events, classroom activities, individual education plan changes, and other relevant information.
  • Conducts health checks on children for health concerns, including ringworm, head lice or other health conditions, and reports to appropriate nurse.
  • Reports suspected child abuse and neglect to designated state agency.
  • Plans, coordinates and oversees field trips for assigned children.
  • Requests supplies and equipment to be ordered for use by children in the classroom.
  • Serves as a bus monitor in the transportation of children and engages children in song and other developmentally appropriate activities during ride.
  • Assists in the transportation of special needs children by lifting child into seat and fastening safety belt.
  • Inspects classrooms and grounds to ensure the safety, orderliness, sanitation and cleanliness of facilities.
  • Discusses plans and coordinates concerns regarding the child and family with other Head Start staff.
  • Performs First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

(CPR) as needed.

  • Performs other related duties as required.

V. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Working knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for early childhood education.
  • Working knowledge of behavior modification theories and practices relating to early childhood development.
  • Working knowledge of current educational techniques and practices relating to early childhood development.
  • Skill in making presentations to groups.
  • Skill in verbal communication with pre-school age children.
  • Ability to resolve conflicts between pre-school age children.
  • Ability to plan, organize and implement early childhood education curriculums.
  • Ability to assume a seated position on the floor for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to collect, organize and evaluate data and develop logical conclusions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to prepare and maintain work-related reports and files.

Ability to handle confidential information.

  • Ability to use a computer and related software.
  • Ability to follow established procedures.
  • Ability to administer CPR and First Aid.
  • Ability to implement safety procedures.
  • Ability to work effectively with others.
  • Ability to provide physical assistance in the transportation of special needs children.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to fifty (50) pounds.

VI. Minimum Qualifications:

  • Graduation from an accredited four-year degree granting college or university in Early Childhood

Education or a related field; or four-year degree in any field with 18 credit hours in Early Childhood Education preferred; and

  • 40-hour childcare training as required by the State of

Florida and meet all requirements of the Hillsborough
County Code of Ordinances and Laws.

  • Two years of experience in teaching Head Start, Early

Head Start, pre-school or kindergarten age children.

Company Description

Bible-Based Fellowship Church of Temple Terrace has a childcare program that has served children for 20+ years.