Preschool Lead Teacher (26-27 SY)

Location:            Multiple Locations

Reports To:        Building Principal

Work Year:        175 Days 

Compensation:  Competitive Compensation and benefits

Start Date:        2026-2027 School Year

Summary of Position:

The Lead Preschool/Early Childhood Teacher serves as the instructional leader of the classroom, responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that prepares children for kindergarten. The teacher designs and delivers high-quality instruction that promotes academic, social-emotional, and physical development while ensuring compliance with all licensing and program standards. This role includes leadership of classroom staff, collaboration with families, and active participation in continuous improvement efforts.

Essential Functions:

(The following list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive list of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position.  Regular attendance is an essential function of this job.)

• Develop and implement high-quality, developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with approved curriculum (e.g., Connect4Learning) and early childhood standards.
• Facilitate engaging, hands-on learning experiences that support the whole child (academic, social-emotional, and physical development).
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners and abilities.
• Use ongoing child assessment data to inform instruction and individualized learning plans.
• Establish and maintain a safe, structured, and supportive classroom environment.
• Serve as the instructional team leader, guiding and collaborating with paraprofessionals/associate teachers.
• Collaborate with school staff to ensure integration of PreK services within the building.
• Participate in professional learning communities (PLCs), Communities of Practice, and MTSS teams.
• Actively engage in ongoing professional development and required training hours.
• Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication, conferences, and engagement activities.
• Conduct home visits and provide opportunities for parent involvement and education.
• Participate in family events, advisory meetings, and open houses.
• Ensure classroom compliance with all state licensing regulations, GSRP requirements, and quality standards.
• Maintain accurate student records and documentation in accordance with program requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality of student and family information.
• Oversee daily classroom operations and ensure a high-quality program environment.
• Support program quality assessments and continuous improvement efforts.
• The Lead Teacher will be designated as the Site License Designee.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and consistent attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Employment Qualifications:

Must have one of the following educational requirements:

A Lead Teacher will be considered credentialed for the position with minimally any of the following:

• A valid Michigan teaching certificate and an Early Childhood Education (ZA) or Early Childhood-General and Special Education (ZS) endorsement, Birth-K, or PK-3 endorsement; or
• A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or child development with a specialization in preschool teaching. The transcript will document a major, rather than a minor, in child development or early childhood education.
• Valid CPR and First Aid certification or be willing to acquire.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, and move frequently throughout the day
• Ability to sit on the floor and transition up and down regularly
• Ability to lift approximately 40–70 pounds (including assisting children)
• Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and reach
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to hear and communicate effectively in noisy environments

 Work Environment:

• Classroom-based preschool setting.
• Moderate to loud noise levels.
• Combination of indoor and outdoor work.
• Direct responsibility for student safety and well-being.

Non-Discrimination

Caledonia Community Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities