GSRP PreK Associate Teacher

About the role

The Teacher Assistant plays a vital role in supporting both the Teachers and the Director in fostering a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment for children. This position contributes to the overall quality of education and care by assisting in daily classroom activities and supporting the implementation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum. An effective Teacher Assistant is a strong communicator, an active listener, and a collaborative team player who works well with colleagues, children, and families.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing curriculum activities and encourage active participation from all children.
• Engage with children throughout the day while maintaining a clean, organized, and well-prepared classroom environment.
• Communicate regularly with parents through informal conversations and progress updates.
• Promote self-help skills and proper hygiene through positive guidance and modeling.
• Support smooth daily transitions between home and the child care setting.
• Follow all center policies, procedures, and state licensing regulations.
• Observe and document children's interests, progress, and developmental milestones, sharing this information with parents and staff to support each child's growth and success.
• Support the planning and implementation of engaging, age-appropriate activities tailored to the needs and interests of the children under the guidance of the Teacher and Director.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to support continuous growth and program quality.

Requirements

• Possess a valid Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, or higher (or be actively working toward one, as required by GSRP guidelines).
• Complete required annual professional development hours in accordance with GSRP and state licensing standards.
• Demonstrate knowledge of GSRP program standards, including developmentally appropriate practice, child assessment, and family engagement.
• Maintain current certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens (or obtain upon hire).
• Successfully pass required background checks, including fingerprinting, as mandated by the state of Michigan.
• Participate in required coaching, classroom observations, and continuous quality improvement processes.

Pay

$16.00–$18.00 per hour, based on education and experience.

Schedule

• Full-time, 40 hours per week
• 8-hour shift, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Monday to Friday

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance