Lead Teacher

About the role

Early Learning Company operates two childcare brands: Huntey's Clubhouse and Gro Childcare Academy. Founded in 1995, Huntey's Clubhouse grew from a single center into what is now Early Learning Company, an organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care across multiple locations. Our mission is to provide a nurturing, safe, and enriching environment where children thrive and families feel supported.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and mentor assistant teachers and classroom aides.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with the center's educational philosophy.
• Maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can explore and learn.
• Establish and maintain open lines of communication with parents/guardians to share children's developmental progress and achievements.
• Collaborate with other teachers and staff to ensure consistent implementation of curriculum goals and classroom management strategies.
• Hold all licensing and state standards, ensuring that the classroom remains compliant with regulations.
• Participate actively in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching practices and classroom management skills.

Requirements

• Candidates must be at least 19 years of age and meet Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications for the position.
• Candidates must meet one of the following pathways:
• Pathway 1: High school diploma or equivalent, 1 year (1,920 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting OR possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential AND MiRegistry-approved training, including: 3 hours in Program Management, Observation/Documentation/Assessment, and Teaching & Learning 6 hours in one or more of the following: Interactions and Guidance Challenging Behaviors Trauma-Informed Practices
• Pathway 2: High school diploma or equivalent, 6 months (960 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting AND 6 semester hours, 9 CEUs, or 90 clock hours of coursework in: Early Childhood Education Child Development Child Care Administration A child-related field
• Ability to pass comprehensive background check requirements under Michigan Child Care licensing
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to create a structured and creative learning environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with children, families, and co-workers.
• Physically able to engage with children at their level, which may include lifting up to 40 lbs, bending, and sitting on the floor.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• At least 1 year (1,920 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting OR possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential AND MiRegistry-approved training, including: 3 hours in Program Management, Observation/Documentation/Assessment, and Teaching & Learning 6 hours in one or more of the following: Interactions and Guidance Challenging Behaviors Trauma-Informed Practices
• 6 months (960 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting AND 6 semester hours, 9 CEUs, or 90 clock hours of coursework in: Early Childhood Education Child Development Child Care Administration A child-related field

Skills

• Ability to create a structured and creative learning environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with children, families, and co-workers.
• Physically able to engage with children at their level, which may include lifting up to 40 lbs, bending, and sitting on the floor.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance and other supplemental insurance options
• Paid time off (vacation, holidays)
• Health and Wellness Programs, including counseling services and a free streaming workout subscription
• 50% childcare tuition discount for employees or with participation in the TriShare program, employee parents pay 33% of tuition
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• A fun, supportive, and collaborative work environment
• And best of all…a fun-filled family atmosphere where every day brings an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and families!

Schedule

Scheduled working hours: 7AM-3PM, Monday through Friday. No nights (outside of one monthly staff meeting after hours), weekends, or holidays.