Preschool Associate Teacher- Watervliet

About the role

Flowers Early Learning (formerly Tri-County Head Start) is a high‑quality preschool in Watervliet, Michigan, recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation (2024) and a Moody Market Best Place to Work in Southwest Michigan (2021). The organization’s mission is to build a future where children, families and communities thrive by providing high‑quality education, health services and more to families in Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties.

Responsibilities

• Assist lead teachers with instruction
• Classroom management
• Cleaning
• Food preparation
• Implement curriculum
• Conduct ongoing assessments and observations
• Utilize developmentally appropriate practices consistent with agency policies, Michigan childcare licensing, and Head Start Program Performance Standards

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 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

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Pass a physical examination
• Complete a comprehensive fingerprinted criminal background check
• Pass a pre‑employment drug screen (negative for amphetamines, cannabinoids including marijuana/THC, cocaine, opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP))

Benefits

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

Pay

• High school diploma/GED: $15.71 per hour
• Preschool Child Development Associate Certificate (CDA): $16.06 per hour
• Associate’s degree (AA): $17.95 per hour
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: $19.24 per hour

Schedule

• Full‑time, Program Year (August‑May)
• Hourly, non‑exempt
• Monday‑Friday, 8:00 a.m.‑4:30 p.m., 40 hours per week