What Are the Basic Requirements to Become a Teacher or Paraprofessional in Head Start?
- As of 2011, all teachers at Head Start must possess either an associate's degree in child development (CDA) or an associate's degree in a related field, along with experience working with preschool children. By 2013, at least 50 percent of Head Start teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field.
- Head Start teachers may receive a three-year waiver to complete minimum requirements while beginning a career with Head Start. However, those teachers working under a special waiver must work alongside another teacher who does meet the minimum qualifications. Teachers may only receive waivers when a properly qualified teacher cannot be found.
- According the National Head Start Association, the average salary for a teacher with an associates degree was $24,300 in 2010. Those with a bachelor's degree earned an average salary of $29,300 in 2010. The compensation for a Head Start teacher is considerably less than the compensation paid to public school kindergarten teachers, who earned an average salary of $48,874 in 2010.
- Head Start coordinators must possess at least a bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field. The compensation offered to coordinators will likely be more than that paid to classroom teachers.
