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Head Start Program Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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Head Start Program information

See Kansas salary details

$26.3K

$69.7K

$122.2K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Kansas is $69,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,300.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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, and why are they important?

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 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.

Head Start Program Support Staff

Head Start Program Support Staff

Kansas Children's Service League

Garden City, KS • On-site

$14/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Kansas Children's Service League is looking to hire a part-time Head Start Program Support Staff in Garden City, KS. This position earns a competitive wage of $14 per hour and works a Monday - Friday schedule with occasional evenings and weekends.

About Kansas Children’s Service League
Stronger families start at Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL). Founded in 1893, KCSL is a statewide, nonprofit agency that serves thousands of Kansas children and families each year. KCSL’s mission is to protect and promote the well-being of children. Our programs work with children and families in the areas of health, safety and education to succeed and break cycles of neglect, abuse and trauma. We help both children and parents develop skills for success in their families, schools and workplaces. KCSL is also the Kansas chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America and Circle of Parents.

EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL EMPLOYEES:

At Kansas Children’s Service League, we protect and promote the well-being of children. In doing so, every employee is responsible for supporting the agency’s mission, vision, and values. This includes actively and regularly demonstrating high-quality customer service, accountability in all aspects of your position, and respecting the differences in our staff, customers, and communities. Expected behaviors and qualities include professionalism and competence, active collaboration, effective communication, initiative and innovation, respect, and goal achievement. Employees are to be able, at any time, to provide basic information about the breadth of customer opportunities available through KCSL and to help customers make connections within the organization. KCSL is an equal opportunity employer.


JOB SUMMARY

Under the daily supervision of the Head Start Education Supervisor, the Head Start Program Support position supports the teaching team with all aspects of classroom operations, child supervision and cares for children ages 0–5. This position is responsible for supporting child health, development, and safety, and for ensuring that program rules, applicable laws, and agency policies and protocols are consistently followed.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Teacher's Aide
    • Provide a welcoming, nurturing, and trauma-informed experience for students
    • Ensure regulations and policies are followed


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be able to read, write, speak, and comprehend English.
  • Demonstrated awareness of the challenges and strengths of children and families living with lower incomes and/or special needs.

Preferred

  • Bilingual - English and Spanish
  • At least one year of paid experience working with infants and toddlers.