Early Years Teacher - Lead Educator for Head Start and Early Head Start Programs in the USA - Immediate Hiring with Competitive Salary and Comprehensive Benefits

Join the Mission-Driven Team at Lutheran Services Florida Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a leading provider of social services, envisioning a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. With 60 programs across Florida, LSF is dedicated to transforming the lives of those in need. As a mission-driven organization, LSF offers a dynamic work environment where staff members can grow and make a meaningful impact. About the Role: Early Years Teacher We are seeking a talented and compassionate Early Years Teacher to join our team as a lead educator in our Head Start and Early Head Start programs. As an Early Years Teacher, you will play a vital role in planning and implementing educational activities for pre-school aged children or infants/toddlers. You will be responsible for creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment that fosters social, emotional, and cognitive development. Key Responsibilities: Plan, develop, and implement daily lesson plans that provide for educational and enrichment activities for pre-school age children or infants and toddlers. Create and arrange classrooms into distinctive learning areas that promote an effective learning environment. Screen and assess children to determine developmental/educational needs and develop and implement individual education plans. Monitor meal and snack periods, classroom and restroom activities, and playground activities to ensure a safe environment for young children. Maintain accurate records of children's progress, complete required manual and computerized forms and reports, and initiate referrals to the Center Director as needed. Communicate with parents through parent conferences, written correspondence, and telephone to apprise them of child's progress, upcoming events, classroom activities, individual education plan changes, and other relevant information. Conduct health checks on children for health concerns and report to the Health Coordinator. Ensure lessons and classroom activities align with the Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Standards and conduct Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten assessments as required. Maintain a comprehensive and ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations, examples of the child's work, and a developmental assessment. Plan, coordinate, and oversee field trips for assigned children and order supplies and equipment for special needs children. Requirements and Qualifications: Education: Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related degree. Experience: Two years of experience teaching Head Start, Early Head Start, pre-school, or kindergarten-age children. Bilingual: Preferred in English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area. Skills: Working knowledge of brain development and its impact on early learning. Working knowledge of child development from birth to age five for typical and atypical children. Working knowledge of culture and practices for early childhood. Working knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for early childhood. Working knowledge of behavior modification theories and practices relating to early childhood development. Skill in verbal communication with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children. Ability to plan, organize, and supervise the work of others. Ability to implement routine care for infants and toddlers in a responsive environment. What We Offer: At LSF, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: Competitive Salary: A salary range that reflects your experience and qualifications. Medical, Dental, and Vision: Comprehensive health insurance coverage. Teladoc: 24/7 online access to doctors. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal and professional challenges. Employer-Paid Life Insurance: 1x salary. 13 Paid Holidays + 1 Floating Holiday: Time to relax and recharge. Generous PTO Policy: Starting at 16 working days a year. 403(b) Retirement Plan: With 3% discretionary employer match or 3% student loan repayment reimbursement. Tuition Reimbursement: Opportunities for professional growth and development. Why Work for LSF? At LSF, we: Embrace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: In all business practices. Offer Growth Opportunities: Explore areas of interest within the organization. Provide a Dynamic Work Environment: Collaborative and supportive team. Make a Meaningful Impact: Transforming the lives of those in need. Take the Next Step: Are you ready to join our mission-driven team and make a difference in the lives of young children and their families? Apply now and let's discuss how you can become a vital part of our success story. Apply for this job