Early Learning Specialist - Head Start Program - Safety Harbor, FL - Immediate Hiring with $3000 Sign-on Bonus

Join the Lutheran Services Florida Team as an Early Learning Specialist and Make a Difference in the Lives of Young Children Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a renowned organization dedicated to providing essential services to children, families, and communities in need. With a presence across the state of Florida, LSF offers a range of programs and services that foster a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. We are currently seeking a talented and compassionate Early Learning Specialist to join our team in Safety Harbor, FL. As an Early Learning Specialist, you will play a vital role in planning and implementing educational activities for pre-school aged children or infants/toddlers in our Head Start/Early Head Start Program. About the Role As an Early Learning Specialist, you will serve as a lead worker in the classroom, responsible for planning and implementing daily lesson plans that provide for educational and enrichment activities for pre-school age children or infants and toddlers. You will work closely with our team to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that promotes social, emotional, and cognitive development in young children. Key Responsibilities: Plan, develop, and implement daily lesson plans that provide for educational and enrichment activities for pre-school age children or infants and toddlers. Arrange classrooms into distinctive learning areas that promote an effective learning environment. Screen and assess children to determine developmental/educational needs and develop and implement individual education plans. Monitor meal and snack periods, classroom and restroom activities, and playground activities to ensure a safe environment for young children. Maintain a comprehensive and ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations in each area, examples of the child's work, and a developmental assessment. Communicate with parents through parent conferences, written correspondence, and telephone to apprise them of child's progress, upcoming events, classroom activities, individual education plan changes, and other relevant information. Conduct health checks on children for health concerns, including ringworm, head lice, and other health conditions, and report to the appropriate Health Coordinator. Ensure lessons and classroom activities align with the Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Standards. Perform quality staff-child interactions and use active supervision techniques to maintain positive classroom behavior. Requirements and Qualifications Education: Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related degree is required. We welcome applicants with a strong foundation in early childhood education and a passion for working with young children. Experience: Two years of experience teaching Head Start, Early Head Start, pre-school, or kindergarten age children is required. Bilingual candidates with English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area are highly preferred. Skills and Competencies: Working knowledge of brain development and its impact on early learning. Working knowledge of child development from birth to age five for typical and atypical children. Working knowledge of culture and practices for early childhood. Working knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for early childhood. Working knowledge of behavior modification theories and practices relating to early childhood development. Skill in the application of supervisory techniques. Skill in verbal communication with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children. Ability to plan, organize, and supervise the work of others. Ability to plan, organize, and conduct early childhood education programs. What We Offer At LSF, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters growth and development. Our benefits package includes: Competitive salary with a $3000 sign-on bonus. Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance. Teladoc (24/7 online access to doctors). Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Employer-paid life insurance (1X salary). 13 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday. Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 working days a year). 403(b) Retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement. Why Work for LSF? At LSF, we are dedicated to creating a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. Our staff members become part of the LSF community while transforming the lives of those in need. We offer: Opportunities for growth and development. A diverse and inclusive work environment. A chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families. A collaborative and supportive team. How to Apply If you are passionate about early childhood education and are committed to making a difference in the lives of young children, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, to [insert contact information]. We look forward to hearing from you! Don't miss this chance to join our team and make a positive impact in the lives of children and families. Apply now and start your journey with LSF! Apply for this job