Assistant Teachers

Join the Adventure: Become an Apple Playschools Apprentice Teacher Help shape the future of young children and grow your career in a supportive, joyful learning community. About Us Apple Playschools is a nonprofit organization providing progressive early childhood education that fosters social responsibility, diversity, and global and environmental awareness. The organization operates two distinct preschool programs across three locations in Ann Arbor, serving infants through kindergarten: Green Apple Garden Playschool and Manzanitas Spanish Immersion Playschool. Its Reggio-inspired programs focus on celebrating and empowering the whole child through play-based learning and child-led exploration. Apple Playschools emphasizes outdoor learning, language immersion, and the arts to support children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. Team members join a mission-driven community dedicated to inclusive, child-centered education. What Makes Apple Playschools UniquePlay‑based, emergent curriculumAnti‑bias and social justice–centered educationReggio Emilia–inspired practicesNature‑immersed, muddy, messy learningA community built on respect, curiosity, and joy Your Role As an Apprentice Teacher, you’ll support high‑quality, mission‑aligned early childhood education while learning directly from a Lead/Mentor Teacher. You’ll grow your skills daily through hands‑on experience, reflection, and collaboration. What’s In It for YouCompetitive pay: $16–$16.75/hour, based on experienceDaily on‑the‑job training and mentorshipGrowth opportunities within the organizationRetirement matching*Network Health Benefit Plan*4+ weeks PTOChildcare assistance (Tri‑Share, Subsidy, Scholarships)Low/no‑cost CDA training50% tuition discount for Apple Playschools youth programsEmployee Assistance Program *Available for staff working 30+ hours/week Your ImpactDesigning meaningful learning experiencesEnsuring safety and following licensing guidelinesEngaging in peer learning, reflection, and feedbackBuilding strong partnerships with children, families, and communityContributing to a welcoming, organized, and joyful environment Must‑HavesAge 18+Eligible to work in the U.S.Minimum 25 hours/weekAbility to pass background checksMeets LARA licensing education requirementsAble to be on your feet most of the dayAble to lift/carry up to 25 lbsComfortable working outdoors in all weather Nice‑to‑HavesExperience working with childrenLove of the outdoors Come and help us transform our community through work and PLAY!