Head Teacher

Make a difference in the lives of children and families.

The Running Stops Here is a new full-day early childhood program opening in Hamden, CT. Our program is designed to support all children, including those with autism and other special needs, in a warm, inclusive, and nurturing environment. The program is led by a supportive Owner/Director with a Master's Degree in Special Education who values collaboration, thoughtful practice, and strong relationships.

We are seeking a Head Teacher to help build and shape this new program from the ground up.

Job Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Director to develop and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum
• Provide leadership and support to classroom teaching staff
• Ensure high-quality, inclusive classroom practices
• Create a nurturing, structured learning environment for children with diverse needs
• Partner with families to support children's growth and development
• Incorporate outdoor learning using our beautiful outdoor play and learning space
• Maintain compliance with state licensing regulations and best practices

Qualifications

• Current CDA or 12 credits in early childhood, plus at least one year of full-time experience in a licensed early childhood program
• Experience working with young children, including children with autism and/or other special needs
• Leadership or supervisory experience in an early childhood setting preferred
• Strong understanding of developmentally appropriate practice
• Warm, collaborative, and reflective teaching style
• Strong communication and organizational skills

Job Details

• Full-time position
• Flexible scheduling
• Supportive leadership and collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to help launch and shape a brand new program

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive curriculum plans aligned with educational standards and developmental milestones.
• Lead classroom instruction for preschool and toddler-aged children, ensuring activities promote literacy, numeracy, social-emotional skills, and physical development.
• Manage classroom environments to ensure safety, engagement, and positive behavior management strategies are in place.
• Supervise and mentor teaching staff, providing guidance on lesson planning, classroom management, and child welfare best practices.
• Coordinate assessments, including standardized testing and progress evaluations, to monitor student development and tailor instruction accordingly.
• Collaborate with parents and guardians to communicate student progress, address concerns, and foster strong home-school partnerships.
• Incorporate specialized educational approaches such as Montessori or other progressive methods as appropriate.
• Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, health standards, and safety protocols within the classroom setting.
• Engage in ongoing professional development related to early childhood education, special education, early intervention strategies, and child welfare practices.

Skills

• Extensive knowledge of childhood development theories and practices.
• Proven experience in curriculum development tailored for early learners across preschool and toddler age groups.
• Strong classroom management skills with the ability to foster a positive learning environment.
• Experience working with children requiring special education or early intervention services.
• Familiarity with literacy education, math instruction, physical education, and standardized testing procedures.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with staff, parents, and community partners.
• Ability to plan lessons that incorporate diverse teaching methods including tutoring and hands-on activities like physical education or Montessori techniques.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities in managing a team of educators while maintaining high standards of childcare quality.
• Knowledge of child welfare policies and best practices in daycare or private school settings. This position is ideal for a passionate educator committed to shaping early childhood experiences through innovative teaching strategies and compassionate leadership.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $ $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person