Preschool Assistant Teacher - Part time

Grand Rapids Community College; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellness Program

Career development opportunities

Retirement plans with employer contribution

Job summary

Grand Rapids Community College is looking for a Contingency Assistant Teacher to support the Lab Instructor in providing a nurturing learning environment for children aged 0-6. The role involves aiding in curriculum development, ensuring a safe classroom environment, and engaging with families and staff.

The ideal candidate will have an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or relevant coursework, and strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with a diverse population.

Qualifications

• Preferred experience in early childhood education.
• Required coursework in early childhood education.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and implementing curriculum for children.
• Maintain a healthy and safe classroom per regulations.
• Model effective teaching and caregiving practices.
• Support classroom goals and accreditation efforts.

Skills

Strong communication

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to work effectively with diverse populations

Education

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development

College coursework completed toward an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development

Job description

Position Overview

Department: Early Childhood Learning Lab
Location: Grand Rapids, MI

The Contingency Assistant Teacher works collaboratively with the Assistant to the Lab Instructor and the Preschool Instructor to develop and maintain a classroom that provides a safe and enriching learning environment for children. The Contingency Assistant Teacher models appropriate teaching and caregiving, and oversees and manages classroom operations to allow the Lead Lab Instructor and Assistant to the Lab Instructor to focus on coaching, mentoring and evaluating college students during their scheduled lab time. The ECLL serves children 6 weeks through 6 years of age, and this position may be in any of our classrooms.

Essential Functions

• Assist Instructor and Assistant to the Instructor in planning and implementing a curriculum that enhances the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of each child in the classroom.
• Maintain a healthy and safe classroom per MI LEAP/Licensing regulations, NAEYC & QRIS guidelines.
• Model appropriate and effective teaching and caregiving practices at all times.
• Develop and maintain supportive and cooperative relationships with families, including participation in family events.
• Work cooperatively with all members of the child development team to meet the goals of the program.
• Assist in the classroom with bulletin boards, newsletters, family notes, documentation panels, etc.
• Support classroom and program accreditation efforts.
• Develop and implement goals for each semester.
• Flexibility to move from one classroom to another when necessary.
• Participate in and complete all staff development/trainings required (24 hours each year).
• Maintain all necessary licensing and accreditation requirements to work in an early childhood setting including physical, TB test, Michigan Child Care Clearance Check (fingerprints), MiRegistry Health and Safety Trainings, CACFP and mandatory reporter training.
• Follow College policy on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development with early childhood experience, preferred.
• Most college coursework completed toward an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development, required.

Skills

• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and faculty team.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time.

Mental Demands

• An interest in working with diverse student populations, who represent a wide range of age, ethnicity, national origin, and ability.
• Demonstrated responsiveness, initiative, and organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties.
• A willingness and an ability to learn college systems.
• High energy level with enthusiasm and an interest in helping and supporting students and colleagues.
• Ability to work under pressure while possessing mature judgment and flexibility in regards to interruptions and schedule changes.
• Must use good judgment in handling sensitive or difficult situations in a professional manner.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to go outside in the winter if the wind chill is 10 degrees or higher and must be able to go out in the summer if the temperature is 90 degrees or below.
• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment that calls for flexibility/adaptability and the ability to handle multiple interruptions and make quick decisions.

Benefits

• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership.
• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities.
• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options, including the state retirement plan or a 401A with a 12% employer contribution.

Application / Hiring Process

• Please fill out an application at https://www.grcc.edu/jobs. Submit a cover letter, resume & unofficial transcript. The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.
• Individuals with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available.
• Only applicants living in the state of Michigan can apply for GRCC careers.
• To apply, visit https://grcc.hrmdirect.com/employment/job-opening.php?req=3486389

Non‑Discrimination Statement

Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.