Head Start/GSRP Associate Teacher

The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) is a critical part of Michigan’s education system serving the Greater Kalamazoo region and provides specialized services to schools and communities and optimizes resources by centralizing innovative programs and services. We partner with school districts and the broader community to offer essential programs including early childhood education, special education, career learning, and educator development, ensuring that learners of all ages receive the support they need.

We are currently seeking a temporary Head Start/GSRP Associate Teacher from January-June 2026 for Head Start/GRSP (multiple locations) in Kalamazoo, Michigan with the possibility of it transitioning into a permanent role.

The essential responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:

• Align services with KRESA Core Values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity) and Culture & Belonging principles to engage and serve all students
• Must have knowledge of and comply with Head Start Policies and Procedures, and State of Michigan Licensing for Child Care Centers
• Assists with creating and implementing lesson plans which incorporate hands-on activities and experiential learning considering factors such as individual needs, abilities, learning levels and physical limitations of students
• Assist with creating a flexible environment that is focused on student success to maximize potential
• Assist with using student assessment data to inform whole group, small group, and individualized instruction
• Establishes effective communication with parents regarding the progress of students and includes them in setting curricular goals for their child
• Implements Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS) in the classroom
• Assist with maintaining accurate and up-to-date child records and lesson plan
• Embodies and demonstrates Kalamazoo RESA’s Core Values: Collaboration, Respect, Trustworthy, innovation, and compassion
• Assist with delivery of Head Start services as defined by Head Start Performance Standards
• Establish a safe, healthy, stimulating and developmentally appropriate learning environment for all children
• Assists with observing and assessing children’s development on a regular basis, analyze data and make plans or referrals specific to the needs of the individual child
• Build positive relationships with families to promote positive parent/child relationships including family events in the classroom and program, and take-home activities
• Work in partnership with the lead teacher and family advocate

Qualified candidates will have an associate degree (AA) in early childhood education or child development or the equivalent. A valid classroom CDA credential. An existing 120 Hour approval.

Other skills and abilities include:

• Embraces and supports KRESA philosophies related to our core values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity), Culture & Belonging, and Continuous Improvement
• Embraces and supports KRESA’s vision of a transformative, equitable and innovative education for all in the Greater Kalamazoo region
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from a wide range of identities and lived experiences
• Ability to discuss differences with colleagues and clients in a manner that supports building positive working relationships
• Has high expectations for all students
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and non-verbally
• Reflective practitioner willing to be coached
• Ability to efficiently use computer and applicable software
• Ability to problem solve
• Maintains confidentiality
• Adapts to frequent changes in the work environment
• Practices safe work habits
• Develops and maintains atmosphere of teamwork
• Uses equipment and material properly
• Understands Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

This is a 10 month calendar position in job grade 11 with an annual rate of pay between $23,953.05 and $34,555.95.

KRESA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefit offering that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits through Michigan’s Office of Retirement Services, tuition reimbursement, student loan forgiveness and wellness incentives – all within a supportive and caring culture centered around our values of collaboration, innovation, compassion, integrity, and respect.

A Great Place to Live and Work

Kalamazoo was recently recognized as a great place to live in the 2024 50 Best Places to Live roundup by Money.com. Kalamazoo was noted for its abundant family-friendly activities and appreciation for artisan-crafted goods, as well as the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship for each Kalamazoo Public School resident graduate that provides up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education.

Notice of Non-discrimination: It is the policy of Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency that no discriminating practices based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or sexual identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category be allowed during any program, activity, service or in employment. The following position at Kalamazoo RESA has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy: Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Contact information: 269-250-9200, 1819 E. Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49002.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.