Preschool Teacher

Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and family support services in Orange and Sullivan Counties.

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Teacher to join our team. This role involves leading a classroom of 12 to 20 Head Start children, focusing on planning, program implementation, family partnerships, communication and service coordination, record keeping, ongoing monitoring and self-assessment, and supervision of classroom staff. The Lead Teacher plays a key role in fostering school readiness and supporting family well-being.

Core Responsibilities

Planning

• Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with Creative Curriculum, the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF), and NYS Early Learning Guidelines.

• Plan individualized learning experiences informed by assessment data, child interests, and family input.

• Create and maintain a positive, language-rich, and nurturing classroom environment.

Program Implementation

• Provide developmentally appropriate, engaging activities that support children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

• Establish consistent, supportive routines and transitions that foster security and independence.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety practices in alignment with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) and OCFS regulations.

Family Partnerships

• Build and maintain positive, respectful, and culturally responsive relationships with families.

• Conduct home visits and parent-teacher conferences to share developmental updates and collaborate on child and family goals.

• Encourage and support family participation in classroom activities, workshops, and program initiatives.

Communication & Service Coordination

• Collaborate with Education Managers, Family Services staff, and specialists to address individual child needs.

• Facilitate referrals and follow-up services as appropriate.

• Communicate effectively with families and colleagues using agency-approved communication tools.

Record Keeping & Reporting

• Maintain accurate attendance, health, and developmental records.

• Complete required observations, assessments, and documentation within established timelines.

• Contribute to classroom and program monitoring systems.

Ongoing Monitoring & Self-Assessment

• Participate in classroom observations and coaching cycles.

• Implement feedback to improve instructional practices and program quality.

• Support program self-assessment and continuous improvement efforts.

Human Resources & Supervision

• Supervise, mentor, and guide Assistant Teachers and classroom support staff.

• Model best practices in classroom management, instruction, and child engagement.

• Provide input on staff development and performance.

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.

• Experience teaching preschool-age children.

• Ability to lift a child weighing up to 40 pounds and conduct home visits.

• Pass a physical examination, background check, and fingerprinting screen.

• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Regional Economic Community Action Program, Inc. (RECAP) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.