Employer: ABC Head Start Society
Position: Early Learning Certified Teacher
Location of Employment: In the City of Edmonton
ABC Head Start Society is dedicated to empowering children and families through early childhood education and support. We focus on providing inclusive, high-quality programs for children ages 3-5, helping them develop socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically during their critical early years.
Our mission is to ensure that every child, regardless of background or ability, has an equal opportunity to thrive. We serve families facing financial, social, and developmental challenges, offering a holistic approach that integrates early learning with health, nutrition, and family support services.
We work closely with families, educators, and community partners to create a nurturing and supportive environment for children. Our diverse and dedicated team is passionate about fostering growth and resilience, empowering families, and building stronger communities.
ABC Head Start Society provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support programs for children aged 3–5 who may need additional developmental support. Services focus on preparing children for kindergarten by supporting their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through play-based learning and individualized programming.
We deliver integrated services that combine:
· Early learning and classroom-based education.
· Developmental support (e.g., speech and language, individualized plans).
· Health and nutrition support.
· Family engagement and parent support programs.
The Opportunity
At ABC Head Start Society, we are driven by a mission to raise families out of poverty and help children harness their superpowers, conquer hardships, and live their best lives. Our Discovery Stream program goes beyond the classroom, creating deep connections with families by working directly in their homes to support both children and caregivers.
We are looking for a compassionate and dynamic Early Learning Certified Teacher-Discovery Stream to join our team. In this unique role, you will spend half your time leading inclusive, play-based instruction in the classroom with children aged 3-5 and the other half working directly with families in their homes or in a community setting. You will support individualized learning plans, help families navigate life’s challenges, and take on administrative tasks such as documentation, program planning and preparation, and participation in meetings to ensure seamless program delivery and coordination.
Our classroom model provides strong support for Early Learning Teachers, including an interdisciplinary team, including Education Assistants II and III, a dedicated speech team, and a Teacher Team Lead who provides mentorship and support with Individualized Program Plans (IPPs). Our class sizes are capped at 16 students.
Primary Roles and Responsibilities
As an Early Learning Teacher -Discovery Stream, you’ll have a unique opportunity to:
In the Classroom:
- Lead engaging, age-appropriate lessons that align with Alberta’s Early Learning and Child Care Framework.
- Use play-based learning strategies to support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team-including Speech-Language Pathologist, Behavioral Consultant, and Occupational Therapist-to meet the diverse needs of children.
In the Home or Community Setting:
- Work directly with families to implement individualized learning plans and strategies that address behavioral and developmental challenges.
- Coach and empower caregivers with tools and techniques to support their child’s growth.
- Connect families to ABC’s interdisciplinary team and community resources to address social, economic, and health-related challenges (e.g., food security, financial support, language barriers).
- Build strong, trusting relationships with families, helping them navigate systems and advocate for their child’s needs.
The Ideal Candidate
You are an educator with a heart for helping families and children overcome challenges, guided by integrity and a commitment to excellence in everything you do. You thrive in dynamic, hands-on environments, using effective communication to build strong relationships and foster trust. Whether in the classroom or in the home or community setting, you excel at planning, organizing, and coordinating to deliver meaningful results. Your collaborative spirit and dedication to teamwork enable you to adapt and succeed in diverse settings, always keeping the needs of children and families at the forefront.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in education with a specialization in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
- Alberta Education Teaching Certificate (valid and in good standing).
- Experience working with children who have complex needs, including behavioral challenges or developmental delays.
- Experience providing family-centered support or advocacy in a home or community setting.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships.
- Willing participant in annual training in Safe Management practices (employer provided training).
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and inclusive education strategies.
- Valid Standard First Aid/CPR certification or completion within 30-days of hire.
- Familiarity with Alberta’s Early Learning and Child Care Framework is an asset.
- Experience working in culturally diverse and inclusive environments is an asset.
- Resourcefulness in connecting families with community services and supports.
- A knack for creative, play-based learning and a love of making learning fun.
Compliance
Clear Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector checks will need to be obtained within 60 days of the date of hire.
Equal Opportunity
ABC Head Start Society is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from Indigenous communities, racialized groups, newcomers to Canada, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and other equity-deserving groups.
Why You Will Love Working Here
At ABC Head Start Society, we are more than a workplace, we are a community that cares. Here is what makes us special:
· Work-Life Balance: Unlike the high pace of the public school system, nonprofit work allows you to focus on what truly matters, making an impact while maintaining balance in your personal life.
· Room to Grow: From professional development workshops to new career opportunities, we’re here to help you thrive, just like the children and families we support.
· Supportive Culture: You will work in a collaborative environment that values your well-being, so you can focus on making a difference.
· Meaningful Work: Every day, you will see the positive impact of your efforts, both in the classroom and in the homes of the families you support.
Compensation Compensation starts at $33.42/hour, with increases based on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Group health, dental, life, AD&D and critical illness insurance and an Employee and Family Assistance Program.
- Four weeks’ vacation plus paid sick and personal time.
NOTE: We thank all interested applicants in advance, however ONLY applicants possessing the qualifications outlined will be contacted.
Pay: From $33.42 per hour
Work Location: In person
