Head Start Teacher Jobs in South Carolina

Job Summary
Join our dedicated team as a Head Start Teacher and play a vital role in nurturing the growth and development of young children in our early childhood education program. In this dynamic position, you will create a safe, engaging, and stimulating learning environment that promotes social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Your passion for early childhood education will inspire children to explore, learn, and thrive while fostering positive relationships with families and the community. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact during the foundational years of a child's life.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.
• Foster a positive, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment that supports school readiness.
• Conduct ongoing child observations, assessments, and documentation using approved assessment tools.
• Individualize instruction to meet the developmental needs of each child, including children with disabilities and dual language learners.
• Promote positive behavior guidance and social-emotional development using appropriate classroom management strategies.
• Maintain active supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all children at all times.
• Complete required screenings, documentation, and child portfolios within established timelines.
• Maintain accurate attendance, meal counts, lesson plans, and classroom records.
• Build positive partnerships with parents through regular communication, conferences, and family engagement activities.
• Collaborate with Teacher Assistants, Family Services staff, Disabilities, Health, and Mental Health specialists to support children's overall development.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting learning environment.
• Ensure compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, licensing regulations, CACFP requirements, and agency policies.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and required trainings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with a commitment to obtaining a bachelor's degree, as permitted by program requirements.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to pass all required background checks, child abuse registry checks, and drug screening.
• Valid driver's license preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous Head Start or preschool teaching experience.
• Knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Experience with Teaching Strategies GOLD or other child assessment systems.
• Experience working with culturally diverse families and children with special needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child growth and development.
• Strong classroom management and active supervision skills.
• Ability to create engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build trusting relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Join us in shaping the future by providing high-quality early childhood education that empowers young learners!

Pay: $15.50 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person