GSRP Lead Teacher

Lead GSRP Teacher

For Kids’ Sake Early Learning Centers
Full-Time | Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)

About Us

For Kids’ Sake Early Learning Centers is a high-quality, relationship-focused early childhood program serving Livingston County families year-round. Our center is open twelve months a year, offering a summer camp program after the GSRP school year ends, ensuring stability and continuity of care for children—and employment security for our staff. We pride ourselves on being a play-based, nurturing, and supportive environment where children, families, and educators feel valued and connected.

Job Summary

The Lead GSRP Teacher is responsible for implementing GSRP curriculum with fidelity, leading the classroom team, ensuring Michigan licensing and MDE compliance, and fostering strong relationships with families. This full-time, year-round position remains active even after the GSRP program concludes for the summer, with pay staying consistent throughout the entire year. This role is ideal for early childhood professionals who value high-quality teaching, teamwork, and long-term career growth.

What Makes Our Center Unique

• Year-round employment — this position does not end when GSRP ends for the school year.
• Summer Camp Program — after GSRP concludes, staff continue working in our summer program with no reduction in pay.
• Consistent, stable pay — your pay rate remains the same throughout the entire year, including summer months.
• Before & After Care Available — because GSRP hours are 8:30am–3:30pm, additional care hours provide more full-time teaching hours.
• TEACH Scholarship Opportunities — If the right candidate does not yet meet GSRP degree requirements, we offer support to pursue further education. Many of our current teachers have successfully completed degrees through the TEACH Early Childhood Michigan Scholarship Program.
• A positive, relationship-based workplace committed to staff growth and well-being.

Responsibilities

Classroom Teaching & Child Development

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with GSRP and FKS curriculum.
• Create an engaging indoor/outdoor classroom environment that supports hands-on, play-based learning.
• Use positive guidance strategies and model calm, respectful interactions.
• Conduct child assessments and maintain documentation using COR Advantage.
• Implement individualized strategies that support growth across all developmental domains.

Family Engagement

• Build warm, trusting relationships with families from drop-off to pick-up.
• Maintain consistent communication about child progress, classroom routines, and program updates.
• Conduct family conferences required by GSRP guidelines.
• Support family participation in classroom and center-wide events.

Team Leadership

• Provide direction and professional support to the Associate Teacher.
• Lead classroom planning meetings and collaborative lesson development.
• Communicate proactively about children’s needs, schedules, and classroom dynamics.
• Uphold a positive, team-oriented work culture free of gossip or negativity.

Program Quality, Compliance & Safety

• Ensure classroom compliance with MDE GSRP standards and LARA regulations.
• Maintain accurate assessments, attendance, documentation, and required reports.
• Perform daily safety checks and maintain a clean, organized classroom.
• Maintain ratios at all times, including transitions and outdoor activities.
• Follow all health, safety, and emergency procedures.

Professional Growth

• Participate in GSRP-required coaching, CLASS/PQA observations, and trainings.
• Set quarterly professional goals and reflect regularly on teaching practices.
• Engage in ongoing early childhood professional development.

Qualifications

Required (Per Michigan GSRP Standards):

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development
  OR
• Bachelor’s in a related field with one of the following:
  • ZA or ZG endorsement
  • ZS endorsement
  • MDE-approved Early Childhood Credential

Preferred Experience/Skills

• Experience working in a GSRP classroom
• Knowledge of HighScope curriculum and COR Advantage
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Education Support Available

If the right candidate is highly qualified but does not yet meet degree requirements, we can assist with TEACH Scholarship enrollment, offering a supported pathway to earning the required credentials.

Why Work With Us

• Year-round employment & consistent pay
• Competitive salary based on education and experience
• Paid professional development & coaching
• A collaborative teaching environment with strong administrative support
• Opportunities for career advancement
• PTO, paid holidays, and additional benefits (customizable)

Work Environment

• Active preschool classroom environment requiring movement, lifting up to 40 lbs, and engagement in play
• Occasional evening hours for family events
• Fast-paced, supportive, team-based setting