Head Start Lead Teacher

Lutheran Services Florida seeks a Head Start Lead Teacher to provide high-quality early childhood education to preschool children in a mission-driven, family-centered environment. The Lead Teacher plans and delivers developmentally appropriate lessons, conducts ongoing child assessments, and creates individualized learning plans to support school readiness. This role fosters a safe, nurturing, and culturally responsive classroom, actively engages parents, and collaborates with multidisciplinary staff to meet Head Start performance standards. The position offers opportunities for professional growth while making a meaningful impact on vulnerable children and families.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with Head Start standards
• Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment
• Conduct ongoing child assessments and maintain accurate documentation
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans
• Engage and communicate regularly with parents and families
• Collaborate with teaching assistants, family services, and support staff
• Ensure compliance with Head Start, licensing, and agency policies
• Participate in trainings, coaching, and continuous quality improvement
• Monitor children's health, safety, and behavior, responding appropriately
• Support transitions and referrals to additional services as needed

Required Skills

• Early childhood curriculum planning
• Child assessment and documentation
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards
• Classroom management
• Family and parent engagement
• Lesson planning and implementation
• Child development knowledge (ages 3-5)
• Health and safety compliance
• Behavior guidance and support
• Recordkeeping and reporting