Strong Beginnings Lead Teacher

*Job Overview*The Lead Teacher in the Strong Beginnings Program plays a critical role in nurturing the development of young children in a high-quality early childhood setting for 3 year old children. The position is responsible for the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate instructional activities, ensuring a safe and inclusive classroom environment, and collaborating closely with families and staff to support each child’s growth. This position supports the goals of Strong Beginnings by laying the foundation for long-term educational success and fostering strong partnerships between the classroom and families.*Key Responsibilities:**Curriculum & Instruction** Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with Early Childhood Standards of Quality for Birth to Kindergarten and Creative Curriculum.* Utilize the Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment tool to track children's progress and adjust instruction accordingly.* Support children's cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development through intentional interactions and planned experiences.*Classroom Environment** Create a safe, supportive, and inclusive classroom where all children can thrive.* Promote positive behavior using evidence-based strategies and trauma-informed practices.* Ensure daily routines and transitions are predictable and developmentally appropriate.*Family Engagement** Conduct two home visits and two family-teacher conferences to foster strong family partnerships.* Collaborate with the Family Liaison to address family needs, concerns, and goals.* Communicate regularly with families regarding classroom activities and their child’s development.* Utilize Procare, phone, email and other program-approved forms of communication daily with families.*Team Collaboration** Collaborate effectively with classroom co-teachers, Early Childhood Specialists, and Family Liaisons.* Participate in team planning meetings, professional development, and reflective supervision.* Contribute to a positive team culture that values respect, equity, and continuous improvement.*Documentation & Compliance** Maintain accurate attendance, child records, and documentation in compliance with program and licensing requirements.* Assist with monitoring child and family data for program reporting and quality improvement.* Implement and uphold all Strong Beginnings program standards and health/safety protocols as outlined in the implementation manual.*Professional Development & Collaboration** Engage in ongoing professional development aligned with Strong Beginnings guidelines and best practices in early childhood education.* Collaborate with assistant teachers, support staff, and administrators to create a cohesive and effective teaching team.* Attend required training sessions, staff meetings, and professional learning communities.*Miscellaneous Responsibilities ** All other duties as assigned.*Job Requirements & Experience** A valid Michigan teaching certificate and an Early Childhood Education (ZA) or Early Childhood-General and Special Education (ZS) endorsement, Birth-K endorsement; or* A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or child development with a specialization in preschool teaching.* Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in early childhood education, preferably in a preschool setting.* Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and experience with research-based curriculums.* Experience working in inclusive settings and with divers families strongly encouraged.* Active engagement with children including sitting, standing, kneeling, and bending and the ability to life up to 35 pounds.*Benefits** Health, Dental & Vision Insurance* Simple 401(k) Retirement Plan* Holiday Pay – eligible after 90 probationary period* Free Child Care for Children 2 years and 6 months and older* Paid Time Off (PTO)Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per yearBenefits:* 401(k)* Dental insurance* Employee discount* Health insurance* Paid time off* Vision insuranceWork Location: In person