Head Start Teacher Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

JOB TITLE: Early Head Start Teacher                    STATUS: Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO: Center Director                                 

SALARY RANGE (dependent upon education):  $17.48-$29.43-Per Hour

*************TEMPORARY***********NO BENEFITS*****MEDICAL LEAVE      

JOB POSTING CLOSES ON September 18, 2026                                    

Job Summary:

Teachers must provide responsive care, effective teaching, and an organized learning environment that promotes healthy development and children’s skill growth aligned with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, including children with disabilities. Emphasize nurturing and responsive practices, interactions and environments that support all children’s engagement. The Teacher is accountable for the Teacher Assistant, Classroom Partners, Special Needs Aides and Volunteers who may assist in the classroom. The Teacher is responsible for performance expectations, child outcomes, compliance and adherence to policies that create a safe learning environment for all children in their care. The Teacher should build a nurturing relationship with each child and mutually beneficial relationship with the parent or guardian of each child. The Teacher is responsible for working in harmony with Family Engagement Specialists, Classroom Coaches and other specialists who may be in a role to support child outcomes. The Teacher is the professional representative of the agency in the classroom and the community. 

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

Deliver high-quality early education and child development services, at a minimum by implementing the following:

 Head Start Performance Standards

• Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework
• Pre-K requirements/OSR, as assigned
• Daycare Licensing Minimum Standards
• Agency Policies and Procedures
• Creative Curriculum
• Alabama Early Learning Guidelines
• Alabama Developmental Standards for Preschool Children
• Regularly communicate with parents to ensure they are well informed about their child’s routines, activity and behavior.
• Engages in the Practice Based Coaching Model
• Enter work hours daily

 Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 

• Knowledge of all items listed under job duties.
• Use of effective Teaching Practices.
• Focus on promoting growth and developmental progressions in children.
• Integrate and analyze child assessment data for planning.
• Integrate developmentally appropriate learning experiences in all developmental areas.
• Conduct screens and assessments. 

 Credentials/Experience:

Must have a minimum of a Child Development Associate, CDA, with experience working with young children. AA or BS degree in Early Childhood or related field, preferred. 

Other Characteristics:

• Willing to obtain an age-appropriate CPR/First Aid Certification.
• This position requires a valid driver’s license, proof of vehicle insurance and safe driving record. 
• Proficient computer skills. 

Additional Responsibilities:

• Must review and verify all required paperwork before submission. 
• Monitor and ensure all required paperwork is entered into data system correctly. 
• Provide training and guidance to Teacher Assistant. 
• Other duties as may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position or related duties.

Work Relationships and Scope:

Reports directly to the Center Director (CD). Works closely with Teacher Assistant, Family Engagement Staff, Children’s Services support staff, children and families. 

Measure of Performance: 

Quality, accuracy, timeliness, reliability, and thoroughness of work performed. 

• TIPTO Scores are 80% or above. (yearly)
• CLASS Scores meet program expectations, (2x/year)
• ITERS Scores meet expectations (yearly)
• PDPs are followed and expectations are met. (on-going)
• Deadlines are met at 100%. (ongoing)
• Paperwork is submitted on time with 100% accuracy. (ongoing)
• Review all classroom paperwork for accuracy prior to submission or uploading into data system. (ongoing)
• Individualize with children based on their needs and interests. (ongoing)
• Assess children’s development and learning. (3x/year)
• Engage in Practice Based Coaching, ongoing. (ongoing)
• Accountable for time in EWS. (daily)
• Parent Conference (2 per year, per child)
• Home Visits (2 per year, per child)
• Initial Home Visits will be made prior to the child’s attendance.
• Work with FES to build relationships with families. (ongoing)
• Follow program Policies and Procedures. (ongoing)

 Working Conditions: 

Results are primarily delivered in a classroom setting conducive to the activities of young children. The Teacher will be required to actively engage children in play, which will require sitting, standing, bending, and minimal lifting of at least 40 pounds. The Teacher is expected to actively engage children outdoors. The Teacher may encounter children with challenging behaviors. The Teacher is required to make two home visits per child each school year. The Teacher is to develop relationships with parents and families where they encourage trust and respectful, ongoing communication that creates a welcoming environment that supports the unique culture, ethnic and economic backgrounds of the families.

Acknowledgement:

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by the Center Director (CD). All requirements are subject to change over time and to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.