Lead Teacher

Early Learning Company; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Health and Wellness Programs

Job summary

Early Learning Company is seeking a lead teacher to mentor assistants and maintain a safe, engaging classroom aligned with our educational philosophy. You will develop and evaluate age-appropriate lessons and establish strong communication with families about each child’s progress.

The role requires Michigan licensing qualifications, a passion for early childhood education, and ability to collaborate with colleagues to deliver consistent curriculum goals.

Qualifications

• Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications required for the role.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with parents and children.
• Ability to lead, coach, and mentor classroom staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and mentor assistant teachers and classroom aides.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans in line with the center's philosophy.
• Maintain a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn and grow.

Skills

Challenging Behaviors

Job description

• Challenging Behaviors

Early Learning Company operates two childcare brands: Huntey's Clubhouse and Gro Childcare Academy. Founded in 1995, Huntey's Clubhouse grew from a single center into what is now Early Learning Company, an organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care across multiple locations.

From the beginning, our mission has centered on delivering safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Today, that commitment continues to guide our work as we support children, families, and team members through strong standards, professional practices, and a shared focus on quality early learning experiences.

Our mission is to provide a nurturing, safe, and enriching environment where children thrive and families feel supported. We offer activities that are specifically designed to encourage each child's growth. Through cooperative play and creative activities, kids reach their social, emotional and physical milestones naturally and with ease.

We thrive on a strong sense of community, and our caregivers are a major part of our success. Beyond professional requirements, our staff are nurturing, attentive, and able to communicate with parents and children.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and mentor assistant teachers and classroom aides.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with the center's educational philosophy.
• Maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can explore and learn.
• Establish and maintain open lines of communication with parents/guardians to share children's developmental progress and achievements.
• Collaborate with other teachers and staff to ensure consistent implementation of curriculum goals and classroom management strategies.
• Uphold all licensing and state standards, ensuring that the classroom remains compliant with regulations.
• Participate actively in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching practices and classroom management skills.

Qualifications

• Candidates must be at least 19 years of age and meet Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications for the position.

Candidates Must Meet One Of The Following Pathways

Pathway 1

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 year (1,920 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting

OR possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

• AND
• MiRegistry-approved training, including:
• 3 hours in Program Management, Observation/Documentation/Assessment, and Teaching & Learning
• 6 hours in one or more of the following:
• Interactions and Guidance
• Challenging Behaviors
• Trauma-Informed Practices

OR Pathway 2

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 6 months (960 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting
• AND
• 6 semester hours, 9 CEUs, or 90 clock hours of coursework in:
• Early Childhood Education
• Child Development
• Child Care Administration
• A child-related field
• Ability to pass comprehensive background check requirements under Michigan Child Care licensing
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to create a structured and creative learning environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with children, families, and co-workers.
• Physically able to engage with children at their level, which may include lifting up to 40 lbs, bending, and sitting on the floor.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance and other supplemental insurance options
• Paid time off (vacation, holidays)
• Health and Wellness Programs, including counseling services and a free streaming workout subscription.
• 50% childcare tuition discount for employees or with participation in the TriShare program, employee parents pay 33% of tuition.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• A fun, supportive, and collaborative work environment
• And best of all…a fun-filled family atmosphere where every day brings an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and families!

Work Schedule

• Scheduled working hours: 6AM-2PM, Monday through Friday. Hours may be adjusted or flexed based on classroom ratios and staffing needs to ensure compliance with state licensing requirements.
• No nights (outside of one monthly staff meeting after hours), weekends, or holidays.