Preschool Lead Teacher

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids • Middleville, MI

17h • $17 - $21 • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Teacher plans, develops, and implements activities for the Wobbler classroom and provides face-to-face leadership in the program. The role may involve early-morning responsibilities and seeks weekday availability from 7:00–8:30 AM and/or 3:00–5:30 PM. The position serves children at off-site school locations throughout Thornapple Kellogg Schools. Staff working both before-school and after-school program hours on the same day receive an additional $2 per hour shift premium.

Requirements

• Degree in Early Childhood Education or CDA required.
• Six months to one year 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 infants, toddlers, preschool, and school-age children.
• Working knowledge of computers and experience with a variety of software applications.
• Blood Borne Pathogen training.
• CPR certification required within the first 60 days.
• First Aid certification required within the first 60 days.
• State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT).
• Fingerprinting.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree (BA) preferred.
• YMCA experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead daily lesson plans.
• Organize and participate in games and activities.
• Provide weekly lesson plans to parents.
• Provide each participant’s parent with information about individual activities daily.
• Prepare materials for daily activities.
• Maintain attendance and arrival and departure records.
• Supervise children.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences at least annually.
• 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.
• Perform other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.

Benefits

• Free YMCA individual membership with full access to facilities.
• 12% employer retirement contribution, with no match requirement upon eligibility, and a 403(b) savings plan.
• Paid sick time.
• Ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
• Free, confidential Employee Assistance Program resources and counseling for the employee and family.
• Additional $2 per hour shift premium for staff working both before-school and after-school program hours on the same day.
• Sign-on bonus of up to $500 for eligible new hires who apply on or after October 12 and start before November 16, 2026, averaging at least 10 hours per week.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree