Lead Infant Teacher

The Goddard School•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

The Lead Infant Teacher at The Goddard School at Knapp’s Corner in Grand Rapids, Michigan, helps provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for young children. The role involves building meaningful relationships with children and families, planning developmentally appropriate learning experiences, and supporting children’s independence, creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development. Teachers observe and document children’s development, communicate with families through a parent communication app and daily interactions, and collaborate with fellow teachers and school leadership. They follow school policies, Michigan licensing requirements, and health and safety procedures. The school describes its culture as supportive, collaborative, and focused on teacher appreciation and professional growth. It offers opportunities for professional development, continuing education, CDA support, leadership roles, and career advancement. The school serves children from infancy through Pre-K and emphasizes learning through relationships, hands-on experiences, exploration, and play.

Requirements

Meet Michigan childcare licensing and background check requirements.
Complete all required training.
Be able to safely lift up to 50 pounds and meet the physical demands of working with young children.
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to children's safety and well-being.
Be dependable, nurturing, patient, and passionate about early childhood education.
Have strong communication and teamwork skills.
Be able to create positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
Be willing to learn, grow, and accept feedback.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
Previous experience working with young children in a childcare or educational setting.

Responsibilities

Build positive, meaningful relationships with children and their families.
Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
Encourage independence, creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development.
Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming classroom environment.
Observe and document children's development and milestones.
Communicate with families through the parent communication app and daily interactions.
Collaborate with fellow teachers and school leadership.
Follow school policies, licensing requirements, and health and safety procedures.
Bring positivity, patience, creativity, and enthusiasm into the classroom.
Meet the physical demands of working with young children, including safely lifting up to 50 pounds.