Lead Teacher

Huntey's Clubhouse; Howard City (MI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off (vacation, holidays)

Childcare tuition discount

Health and Wellness Programs

Opportunities for career growth

Job summary

Huntey's Clubhouse in Howard City, Michigan, is seeking a passionate educational leader to guide assistant teachers and implement age-appropriate lesson plans. The ideal candidate will foster a nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and grow, ensuring compliance with Michigan Child Care Licensing requirements.

This role involves collaboration with staff, engaging with families, and participating in professional development. We offer competitive benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for career advancement in a fun, supportive atmosphere.

Qualifications

• At least 19 years of age and meet Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications.
• Ability to pass comprehensive background check requirements.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and mentor assistant teachers and aides.
• Develop and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans.
• Maintain a safe and nurturing learning environment.

Skills

Leadership and mentoring

Communication

Curriculum development

Interpersonal skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

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

• At least 19 years of age and meet Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications for the position.
• 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
  • 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
• Pathway 2
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 6 months (960 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting
  • 6 semester hours, 9 CEUs, or 90 clock hours of coursework in: Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Child Care Administration, or 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 participation in the TriShare program; employee parents pay 33% of tuition.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement.
• A fun, supportive, and collaborative work environment.
• 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.
• No nights (outside of one monthly staff meeting after hours), weekends, or holidays.