Young Preschool - Lead Teacher

As a Lead Teacher at Early Impressions Preschool & Childcare Centers, you will play a key role in creating a safe, nurturing, and educational environment that supports the developmental needs of children ages [insert age group]. You will work in compliance with Michigan childcare licensing requirements, ensuring high-quality care, early childhood education, and positive relationships with families and children.

Child Development and Instruction:

• Plan, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lessons and activities that promote the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children.
• Foster a positive and stimulating learning environment, encouraging exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Use observation and assessment tools to monitor each child’s development and adjust teaching strategies as needed.
• Maintain a safe and supportive classroom environment that meets the individual needs of each child.

Compliance with Michigan Childcare Licensing Requirements:

• Ensure adherence to all Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and childcare licensing regulations, including child-to-staff ratios, health and safety protocols, and curriculum guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of children’s attendance, medical forms, incident reports, and other required documentation.
• Keep up to date with any changes in state regulations related to childcare licensing and implement them into classroom practices.

Classroom Management:

• Lead and supervise classroom assistants or support staff, providing guidance, direction, and mentorship.
• Implement positive behavior management strategies in line with Michigan's licensing standards and center policies.
• Promote respect and inclusion in the classroom, addressing any behavioral issues in a constructive and nurturing manner.

Family Engagement:

• Establish and maintain strong communication with families, keeping them informed of their child’s progress, milestones, and any concerns.
• Actively involve parents in their child's learning process by providing resources and encouraging their participation in activities.
• Offer guidance and support to parents on early childhood development and parenting techniques.

Health and Safety:

• Follow all health and safety protocols, including proper sanitation, emergency procedures, and child supervision practices.
• Monitor children for signs of illness or distress, and report any concerns to the center director or relevant authorities as needed.
• Maintain a clean and organized classroom that is conducive to both learning and health.

Professional Development:

• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with early childhood education practices and Michigan childcare licensing requirements.
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and conferences as required to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development or a related field (preferred)
• Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development or related field (preferred)
• Any combination of approved routes to Lead Teacher qualifications as outlined in MiLEAP Childcare Licensing Rules
• Minimum of 1 year experience in early childhood education or childcare (preferred)
• Strong knowledge of childcare licensing rules and regulations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with children, parents and staff
• ·Ability to create and maintain a positive, inclusive and respectful classroom environment
• Flexibility, patience and a passion for working with children.

CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 – 40 per week

Work Location: In person