Lead Teacher-Early Childhood Center

St. Paul Child Development Center is a licensed early childhood program committed to providing a safe, enriching, and nurturing environment where young children can play, learn, and grow. Our mission is to support children’s developmental needs with high-quality interactions, positive guidance, and meaningful curriculum.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and organized Lead Teacher to guide classroom planning, instruction, and daily care for young children. The Lead Teacher will ensure a high-quality early childhood experience, supervise and support classroom assistants, partner with families, and maintain compliance with Michigan’s child care licensing standards.

Key Responsibilities

· Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities

· Lead daily routines including circle time, transitions, and learning centers

· Supervise and support assistant teachers and classroom aides

· Observe, document, and assess children’s development

· Communicate effectively with families about progress and classroom events

· Ensure children’s safety, health, and well-being at all times

· Maintain accurate records and follow licensing guidelines

Responsibilities

• Design and implement engaging lesson plans aligned with early childhood education standards, including literacy, math, physical education, and social-emotional learning.
• Lead daily classroom activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development for children from toddler to preschool age.
• Manage classroom behavior using positive behavior management techniques to create a safe and respectful environment.
• Collaborate with team members to develop curriculum development strategies that meet individual child needs and promote inclusive learning experiences.
• Communicate regularly with parents about their child's progress, milestones, and any concerns through meetings, reports, or informal updates.
• Ensure compliance with mandated reporting laws and maintain accurate records of child welfare and developmental assessments.
• Support early intervention efforts by identifying developmental delays or special needs and coordinating with specialists as needed.

Requirements

• Proven experience working with children in early childhood settings such as daycare, preschool, or private schools.
• Minimum 1 year of experience working with children AND MiRegistry-approved training in program management, observation/assessment, teaching/learning, and guidance/behavior strategies (specific clock hours required).
• Minimum 6 months experience AND childcare coursework (e.g., 6 semester hours, 9 CEUs, or 90 clock hours in child care administration, early childhood education, child development, or related field).
• A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate’s degree or Bachelors Degree in ECE or related field with required MiRegistry-approved training.
• Maintain current health, safety, and professional development training as required by MiRegistry and state licensing
• Demonstrated knowledge of childhood development principles, curriculum development, and classroom management techniques.
• Certification in first aid and CPR is required; ongoing training in child welfare and safety protocols is preferred.
• Strong communication skills to effectively engage with children, parents, and team members.

Mandatory Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm

1 Week Orientation: August 10-14, 2026; Official Contract Start Date: August 17, 2026

Pay: $36,000.00 - $39,600.00 per year

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $36,000 - $39,600