Early Head Start Lead Teacher

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids•Grand Rapids, MI

16h•$23 - $25

About The Position

The Early Head Start Lead Teacher plans, develops, and implements Early Head Start classroom activities and program requirements. The role provides face-to-face leadership in the program and may involve early morning responsibilities. The position is full-time, non-exempt, and scheduled for 40 hours per week. The teacher plans and leads daily lessons and activities, maintains children’s supervision and classroom records, communicates with families, and conducts parent-teacher conferences and home visits. The role also includes administering Brigance and PALS assessments, working with an Early Childhood Specialist, maintaining classroom supplies and equipment, addressing behavior and parent concerns, and adhering to Office of Head Start requirements. Local travel and occasional out-of-state travel for conferences or training may be required.

Requirements

Infant Toddler CDA credential from an accredited college, or an associate or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Three to six months of childcare-related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles.
Ability and desire to work with and care for infants, toddlers, and preschool children.
Working knowledge of computers and experience with a variety of software applications.
Blood Borne Pathogen training.
CPR certification within the first 60 days.
First Aid certification within the first 60 days.
State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT).
Fingerprinting.
DHS clearance.

Responsibilities

Plan and lead daily lesson plans.
Organize and participate in games and activities.
Provide weekly lesson plans to parents.
Give each participant’s parent daily information about individual activities.
Prepare materials for daily activities.
Maintain attendance records and children’s arrival and departure times.
Maintain supervision of children.
Conduct parent-teacher conferences twice a year.
Administer the Brigance and PALS tools.
Establish a working relationship with the Early Childhood Specialist, including offsite meetings and conferences.
Conduct home visits twice a year.
Maintain the quality and quantity of classroom supplies, equipment, and materials.
Discipline children and recommend or initiate other measures to control behavior.
Handle parent concerns.
Travel to conferences within and outside the state.
Adhere to OHS guidelines and requirements for EHS.
Perform other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.

Benefits

Free YMCA family membership and program discounts.
50% childcare discount for children enrolled in a YMCA childcare program, excluding the infant room.
Medical coverage with plan options up to 93% employer-paid through Blue Care Network.
Dental and vision insurance.
Health Savings Account with up to $1,040 in annual employer contributions.
Three weeks of paid time off per year, plus nine paid holidays.
Paid parental leave.
12% employer retirement contribution upon eligibility, with no match requirement, and a 403(b) savings plan.
Short- and long-term disability coverage.
Employer-paid life insurance and voluntary family coverage.
Optional accident, hospital, pet, and legal insurance, among other coverage options.
Pay on demand for access to earned wages before payday.
Ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for eligible employees.
Employee Assistance Program with free, confidential resources and counseling for employees and their families.
Sign-on bonus: eligible full-time Early Learning hires can earn up to $800 during their first year.