Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$33,860
Average salary range
Job Title
Lead Teacher (Head Start)
Job Outlook (Texas)
+12%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
Most Head Start Lead Teachers have an associate degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field. Some programs prefer or require a bachelor's degree, particularly for preschool classrooms.
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
Employers may require or prefer a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, CPR and First Aid certification, and training related to Head Start Program Performance Standards.
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
Most Head Start Lead Teachers have prior experience working with young children in early childhood education settings. Experience supporting children's development, family engagement, and classroom routines is often preferred.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
Your day would focus on supporting young children’s learning and development while meeting Head Start program standards. You might:
- Plan and lead daily classroom activities that support children’s early learning and school readiness
- Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment
- Observe children’s development and document progress
- Work closely with assistant teachers and support staff in the classroom
- Communicate regularly with families about children’s learning and needs
- Follow Head Start performance standards related to health, safety, and education
- Participate in trainings, meetings, and ongoing professional development
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Denise
Denise began her career as an assistant teacher in a child care center while completing her associate degree in early childhood education. She later joined a Head Start program, where she built expertise in family engagement and school readiness practices. As a Lead Teacher, she enjoys creating meaningful learning experiences for children. In the future, she hopes to become an Education Manager and support instructional quality across multiple classrooms.
Andre
Andre started as a classroom aide in an Early Head Start program and discovered a passion for helping young children learn through play and exploration. After gaining classroom experience and completing additional early childhood coursework, he became a Head Start Lead Teacher. He values partnering with families and helping children build a strong foundation for future success. Eventually, he would like to become a coach or early childhood specialist.
Celeste
Celeste first worked as an assistant teacher in a Head Start classroom while attending community college. Over the years, she gained experience with curriculum planning, child assessment, and supporting diverse learners. She plans to remain a Head Start Lead Teacher long-term because she enjoys working directly with children and families and appreciates the opportunity to make a difference during the early years of development.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
Lead Teachers are patient, caring, and organized. They communicate clearly with families and coworkers, stay flexible when children’s needs change, and work well as part of a team. They are motivated by helping children and families grow and succeed.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- Assistant teachers in early childhood classrooms
- Child care workers in center‑based programs
- Early Head Start or Head Start classroom aides
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, Lead Teachers may move into roles such as:
- Assistant Director or Education Coordinator
- Head Start Coach or Specialist
- Center Director