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Head Start Teacher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

Maricopa

Head Start Teacher

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$40K - $59K/yr

As a Head Start Teacher, you will promote active learning in a preschool classroom by planning and implementing developmentally appropriate, individualized experiences and creating a safe and ...

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

AKA Head Start

Early Head Start Teacher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $31.16/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

Child First

Head Start Teacher

Sarasota, FL · On-site

Head Start Teacher Job Type: Full-time Location: Sarasota, FL We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Head Start Teacher to join our team. As a Head Start Teacher, you will be responsible for ...

Maricopa

Head Start Teacher

Mesa, AZ

$40K - $59K/yr

As a Head Start Teacher, you will promote active learning in a preschool classroom by planning and implementing developmentally appropriate, individualized experiences and creating a safe and ...

Maricopa

Head Start Teacher

Mesa, AZ

$40K - $59K/yr

As a Head Start Teacher, you will promote active learning in a preschool classroom by planning and implementing developmentally appropriate, individualized experiences and creating a safe and ...

Maricopa

Head Start Teacher

Mesa, AZ

$40K - $59K/yr

As a Head Start Teacher, you will promote active learning in a preschool classroom by planning and implementing developmentally appropriate, individualized experiences and creating a safe and ...

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How much do head start teacher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for head start teacher in the United States is $19.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Start Teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Start Teacher, you need a solid understanding of early childhood education, child development, and typically an associate or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, assessment software, and compliance with Head Start Performance Standards is required. Patience, cultural sensitivity, and strong communication skills help build trust with both children and families. These competencies ensure a nurturing, inclusive learning environment that supports children's academic and social-emotional growth.

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

AspectHead Start TeacherPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild development associate (CDA) or early childhood education certificate; some roles require a bachelor's degreeTypically CDA or early childhood education certification; some positions may require a bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentHead Start programs in community centers, schools, or local agencies serving low-income familiesPreschools, childcare centers, or private early childhood education settings
Employer & Industry UsageFederal-funded Head Start programs focusing on early childhood development and family supportPrivate and public preschools focusing on early childhood education

Both roles involve working with young children and require similar certifications. However, Head Start Teachers often work within federally funded programs emphasizing comprehensive child development and family services, while Preschool Teachers may work in private or public preschools with a primary focus on early learning curriculum.

What is the highest paid job in childcare?

The highest paid jobs in childcare are often executive roles such as childcare center directors or early childhood education administrators, who oversee operations and staff. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn significantly higher salaries than classroom teachers.

How to make an extra $1000 a month as a teacher?

Head Start teachers can increase their income by taking on after-school or summer programs, which often pay additional wages. Developing specialized skills or certifications, such as early childhood education credentials, can also qualify teachers for higher-paying roles or supplemental opportunities within the education field.

Where do preschool teachers get paid the most?

Preschool teachers tend to earn the highest salaries in states with a higher cost of living and greater demand for early childhood education, such as Massachusetts, New York, and California. Urban areas and regions with well-funded school districts often offer higher pay, especially for teachers with advanced certifications or specialized skills.

What credentials do you need to be a Head Start teacher?

To become a Head Start teacher, candidates typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, along with an associate's or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field. Many programs also require relevant certifications such as CPR and First Aid, and some states may have specific licensing or credentialing requirements for early childhood educators.

What are Head Start Teachers?

Head Start Teachers are early childhood educators who work in the federally funded Head Start program, which provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. These teachers are responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that promote children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. They also assess children's progress, communicate with families, and ensure a safe, nurturing classroom environment. Head Start Teachers play a crucial role in preparing young children for kindergarten and lifelong learning.

What are some common challenges Head Start Teachers face when supporting children from diverse backgrounds?

Head Start Teachers often work with children from a variety of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, which can present unique challenges in communication, classroom management, and individualized instruction. Building strong relationships with both children and their families is essential, as is adapting lesson plans to meet diverse learning needs. Teachers may also need to collaborate closely with support staff, such as family service workers and specialists, to ensure each child receives comprehensive support. Ongoing professional development and cultural competency training are valuable tools for overcoming these challenges and fostering an inclusive classroom environment.
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What states have the most Head Start Teacher jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Start Teacher jobs include:
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Head Start Teacher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Start Teacher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,281 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Head Start Teacher

Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties Head Start Consortium

South Bend, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Head Start School Teaching/Head Start Teacher
Date Posted:
1/31/2025
Location:
Elkhart & St. Joseph Counties Head Start
Date Available:
IMMEDIATEMultiple Positions Available
ONE OF THE FOLLOWING REQUIRED FOR A HEAD START TEACHING POSITION:
Bachelor's Degree + Preschool CDA
Bachelor's Degree w/Preschool CDA within 2 years
Bachelor's Degree in Education/Early Childhood Education
Click link to the right for full job description
Attachment(s):
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