Lead Educator

Ivybrook Academy (https://www.ivybrookacademy.com/ann-arbor/) is a progressive Montessori and Reggio Emilia inspired half-day preschool that welcomes students from 18 months to five years of age. School opens Fall 2025.

School hours are:

• Half day: 8:30–12:00 pm
• Dual Session: 8:30-4:30 pm (ages 3 or older ONLY)
• Our program follows the public-school calendar over ten months.
• We offer a summer camp program for students two-six years of age.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking passionate and dedicated preschool educators for our Ann Arbor campus who are committed to progressive, high-quality education. Our schools provide a professional and supportive environment, allowing educators to focus on igniting the joy of learning in their students. The ideal candidate is deeply committed to the highest standards in early childhood education. They have a well-articulated education philosophy aligned with non-traditional, constructivist, or Reggio-inspired approaches. They bring a sense of humor, flexibility, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic school setting. We are looking for educators who excel at building strong relationships with students, colleagues, families, and the broader community.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary
• Annual Bonus
• Tuition discount
• Generous paid time off
• A warm, professional, and supportive work environment
• Opportunities for growth and professional development

Key Responsibilities:

• Establish a safe, nurturing, and inclusive preschool environment for students and families.
• Collaborate professionally with staff and families to support student growth.
• Maintain ongoing communication with families regarding student progress.
• Develop and maintain individual student portfolios.
• Implement student assessments using proprietary materials and documented observations.
• Attend meetings, professional development sessions, and school functions.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and professional growth.
• Provide exceptional customer service to students, families, and the community.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Excellent organizational, communication, and collaboration skills.
• An engaging teaching style that is both empathetic and effective.
• Ability to foster an inclusive classroom community that values respect, collaboration, and a love of learning.
• Strong classroom management skills to maximize learning opportunities.
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field preferred.
• Experience in an early childhood education setting required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint.

Job Requirements:

• Priority will be given to candidates with a Bachelor’s or Associate's degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field.
• Previous experience in a public, private, or licensed school setting is preferred.
• All our educators must meet the requirements outlined in the Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers (Bureau of Community and Health Systems – Child Care Licensing Division of MI) for the position which they will fulfill.

Ivybrook Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a team that values educational excellence, innovation, and community. If you are a passionate educator looking to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $17.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Are you proficient with technology such as email, web searches, photo uploads, Microsoft Word/Excel/PowerPoint, Adobe/PDF editing/composition?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Montessori and/or Reggio Emilia educational methods: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Ann Arbor, MI 48108: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $21