The Head Teacher develops and implements individual educational plans to support children's social, physical, and emotional development. They also manage classroom activities, maintain a safe environment, and collaborate with staff and parents to ensure student progress.
Requirements summary
Candidates must hold at least an Associate degree in Early Childhood and be enrolled in a baccalaureate program, or possess a higher degree in the field. Applicants are required to have relevant teaching experience and knowledge of Head Start practices and developmentally appropriate standards.
Are you ready to give back to the community while pursuing your passion?
For over 50 years, Acacia Network and its affiliates have been committed to improving the quality-of-life and wellbeing of underserved communities in New York City and beyond.
We are one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and the largest Hispanic-led nonprofit in the State, serving over 150,000 individuals every year.
Our programs serve individuals at every age and developmental level, from the very young through our daycare programs to mature adults through our older adults centers.
Our extensive array of community-based services are fully integrated, bilingual and culturally competent.
Position overview
Under the direction of the Education Director, the Head Teacher develops and implements individual educational plans for children, which help them to develop socially, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their stage of development. The Teacher works collaboratively with the Teacher Assistant and aid/or volunteers.
Key essential functions
Perform the functions of this position with a strong understanding of the Head Start Performance Standards and thorough knowledge and application of Developmentally Appropriate Practices.
Implement Creative Curriculum in the classroom.
Plan and implement learning experiences that promote all developmental areas, including improving the readiness of children for school by developing in all domains.
Guide and facilitate activities of the children, including daily activities, choice time, selecting and arranging equipment and materials in the classroom.
Cooperate with other staff and classroom groups to maintain the smooth functioning of the center, which at times may require changes to meet the needs of the children.
Maintain a safe and healthy classroom environment. Assure that classroom equipment, furniture, materials, and supplies are properly maintained and stored.
Maintain a comprehensive and ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations in each area, examples of the child’s work, and developmental assessment completed through SmartTeach..
Experience with or knowledge of SmartTeach (formerly Teaching Strategies Gold) for the implementation of children’s documentation.
Benefits
Paid holidays
Paid time off
Medical coverage
Vision coverage
Dental coverage
Eat and assist children in the development of social and self- help skills, and sound nutritional practices.
Conduct two home visits and two/three parent conferences to discuss the child’s individual development and progress, assist the parents in developing observational skills and solicit parent observations.
Meet periodically with directors and family assistants to exchange information pertinent to the identification and services of children with disabilities.
Meet with the mental health consultant as needed to discuss the mental health needs of children.
Work with assistant and aide to use and develop staff’s individual skills and abilities in planning and carrying out classroom activities.
Participate in all pre-service trainings and workshops throughout the year.
Use the park as an extension of the classroom and ensure that the park is safe.
Assist in conducting the daily health and environment check list.
Assist in implementing children’s I.E.P. (Individual Education Plan) or I.F.S.P. (Individual Family Service Plan) seeking clarification for any aspects that are not well understood.
Assist in recruiting and orienting volunteers, providing them with guidance as needed.
Complete and submit required forms and records in a timely and accurate fashion, e.g. lesson plans, assessments, attendance, meal counts and progress reports.
Actively participate in the development and implementation of the Teacher Professional Development Plan.
Experience working successfully with culturally diverse staff and clients.
Perform other duties as may be required
Requirements
Qualifications for a Study Plan Lead Teacher include: An Associate degree in Early Childhood AND enrolled in a baccalaureate program in early childhood OR 90 credits towards a baccalaureate in early childhood AND enrolled in a baccalaureate in early childhood OR a baccalaureate in any field AND be enrolled in a Master’s degree program in early childhood OR a baccalaureate in early childhood AND be enrolled in a Masters program in early childhood.
For Unlicensed professionals - Two years experience teaching children in the age range for which she/he is applying
For licensed professionals a minimum of Three years Or be in the process of completing an advanced degree and a NYS teaching Certification” birth to grade 2”.
Have knowledge and experience in the philosophy and practices of Head Start (or comparable child development programs), early childhood education, developmentally appropriate practices.
Proof of a physical examination within the last 6 months, which includes a tuberculosis test, a TDaP vaccination within the last ten years and comply with other background checks as required by the Agency and/or DOHMH licensing, DOE and ACS.
Personal qualifications as required: Licensing Standards for Early Childhood Center based programs, flexibility, patience, and physical and mental health which does not interfere with responsibilities.
Experience in collaborating with parents in the education of their children.
Why join us?
Acacia Network provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Market context
New York Head Teacher Role
Head Teacher roles in New York are often competitive because schools look for early childhood credentials, current health clearances, and classroom experience. This posting requires an Associate degree in Early Childhood with progress toward a Bachelor’s, or a Bachelor’s with relevant certifications, plus two to three years of experience depending on licensure status. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your transcripts, certifications, physical exam, and TB test are ready before applying.
