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Head Start Program Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Child Start, Inc.

Coaching Coordinator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Through tailored professional development opportunities and immersive learning experiences, you will help staff gain a deep understanding of Early Head Start and Head Start programs, as well as their ...

Child Start, Inc.

Coaching Coordinator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Through tailored professional development opportunities and immersive learning experiences, you will help staff gain a deep understanding of Early Head Start and Head Start programs, as well as their ...

Child Start, Inc.

Coaching Coordinator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Through tailored professional development opportunities and immersive learning experiences, you will help staff gain a deep understanding of Early Head Start and Head Start programs, as well as their ...

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All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Jobs in Kansas

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 jobs near you

Head Start Teacher

KS Children's Service League

Garden City, KS • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Kansas Children's Service League is looking to hire a full-time Head Start Teacher in Garden City, KS. This position earns a competitive wage of up to $42,000 annually 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.

As a team member of Kansas Children's Service League, you’ll enjoy the following benefit offerings and more based on selected cafeteria options and employment class:

  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Critical Illness & Accident Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(K) & matching offerings
  • Family Friendly Paid Wellness Leave
  • Paid Vacation & Wellness Time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Earned Wage Access

For more details on our benefits, please visit our KCSL Career site.


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

This position provides a developmentally appropriate environment allowing each child to learn at his/her own level and assure that the classroom is in compliance with State Licensing and Performance Standards. Supervise and provide guidance to classroom staff.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Education
    • Teach children in all subject areas, individualizing for the students’ needs in academic and social/emotional development.
    • Implement designated Curriculum, provide supporting activities when needed.
  • Administrative
    • Complete paperwork and or computer data entry (Curriculum and assessment documentations, Lesson Plans, Attendance tracking) according to ISP manual and paperwork mapping.
  • Supervision
    • Provide support and guidance to all assigned staff with their daily responsibilities.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

  • Associates Degree in Early Childhood
  • Active Preschool CDA - Willingness to return to school to meet additional requirements.

Preferred

  • Bachelor’s degree in early childhood.