Preschool Associate Teacher- Benton Harbor

About Us

Flowers Early Learning, formerly known as Tri-County Head Start, is a high-quality preschool located in Benton Harbor, Michigan, serving classrooms with children ages 3-5. We promote social, emotional, and physical health in our community by providing high-quality education, health services, and more for families in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Our mission is to build a future where children, families, and communities thrive. Flowers Early Learning was selected as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation in 2024 and one of the Moody Market Best Places to Work in Southwest Michigan in 2021 for our commitment to employee engagement, feedback, and wellness.

About the Role

Associate Teachers assist lead teachers with instruction, classroom management, cleaning, food preparation, and implement curriculum, ongoing assessments, and observations for preschool-age children. This role utilizes developmentally appropriate practices consistent with agency policies, Michigan childcare licensing, and the Head Start Program Performance Standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist lead teachers with classroom instruction and management
• Support implementation of curriculum and ongoing assessments
• Conduct observations of preschool-age children
• Perform classroom cleaning and food preparation duties
• Adhere to agency policies, Michigan childcare licensing, and Head Start Program Performance Standards

Requirements

• Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent with one year of relevant experience
• Must complete an age-appropriate Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, child development apprenticeship, or associate’s degree in early childhood education within two years of hire
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to pass a physical examination, comprehensive fingerprinted criminal background check, and pre-employment drug screen (including negative results for Amphetamines, Cannabinoids (including Marijuana/THC), Cocaine, Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP))
• Marijuana is prohibited in the workplace or in one's system, even if legally prescribed

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED: $15.61/hr
• Preschool Child Development Associate Certificate (CDA): $15.93/hr
• Associate’s degree (AA): $17.84/hr
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: $19.12/hr

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Paid time off, earned sick time, paid parental leave, paid holidays, and paid breaks
• Paid weather days
• Tuition reimbursement and assistance in furthering your education
• Employee assistance program
• Wellness committee providing resources to enhance life outside of work

Pay

$15.61 - $19.12 per hour, depending on education and credentials.

Schedule

• Full-time, program year (August–May)
• Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
• 40 hours per week

Location: Benton Harbor, Michigan