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Head Start Program Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Summary: The Head Start preschool teacher is responsible for providing a safe, developmentally ... Implements the program curriculum and plans weekly lesson plans with school-readiness activities ...

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Head Start Program information

See Texas salary details

$27.5K

$72.9K

$127.6K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Texas is $72,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $86,200.00 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.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Head Start Program jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Head Start Program job openings:
Early Head Start Teacher (2124)

Early Head Start Teacher (2124)

BAKERRIPLEY

Richmond, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

This position serves as a teacher in a classroom of Early Head Start infants and toddlers by planning, implementing, and supervising all center-based activities. This position may work with infants and toddlers with developmental delays. The position works in tandem with an integrated team to support the goals of the program.


Core Duties and Responsibilities


1. Plan and provide developmentally appropriate activities and experiences that advance all areas of children’s development (social, emotional, cognitive, physical) in a manner appropriate to age and stage of development.

2. Provide a safe, healthy and well-managed environment to meet the changing needs of infants and toddlers.

3. Develop and implement individualized goals for children that meet their needs and are developmentally appropriate.

4. Develop an individual plan for each child to include goal setting based on identified needs and prescriptions for objectives and activities to meet established goals (outcomes).

5. Screen, observe and document student progress in the GOLD online assessment system

6. Prepare and maintain accurate records, including child observations, individualization, lesson plans, attendance, meal count, parent participation, in-kind contributions and volunteer time sheets.

7. Establish consistent, stable and supportive relationships with infants/toddlers and their families.

8. Encourage, facilitate, and support parental involvement in all aspects of the Early Head Start Program.

9. Schedules home visits and parent-teacher conferences with families as required and on an as-needed basis and documents these events.

10. Work closely with the Early Head Start Mentor Teacher in planning and implementation of the Early Head Start curriculum

11. Provide a safe and nurturing environment for infants and toddlers in accordance with all regulations

12. Perform any other duties as may be required.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

· Current Infant/Toddler CDA required

· Associate’s Degree Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.

Other Qualifications

· Knowledge of Early Head Start mission, goals policies and procedures

· Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and other regulatory requirements

· Basic knowledge of the use of computers