GSRP Teacher

Starting 2025-2026 School Year

Position Summary:

The Great Start to Readiness Program (GSRP) Lead Teacher is responsible for the comprehensive planning, assessment, and instruction of four-year-old children, ensuring that each child's individual needs are met in alignment with the requirements of the GSRP grant. This role also involves maintaining program quality and compliance with the standards outlined in the GSRP Implementation Manual, and the State of Michigan Licensing Requirements. The Lead Teacher is expected to design, implement, and oversee a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that fosters children's growth and prepares them for kindergarten, in accordance with the Michigan Early Childhood Standards of Quality.

Education, Training, and Experience Requirements:

• Possession of a valid Michigan Teaching Certificate with an Early Childhood (ZA or ZS) endorsement, or certification by the Michigan Department of Education or working towards certification

• A minimum of two years of experience in Early Childhood Education, preferably working with at-risk preschool children.

• Ability to comply with the State of Michigan Child Care Licensing requirements.

• Demonstrated expertise in designing and delivering developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support academic growth.

• Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to make decisions and solve problems effectively within a team setting.

• Proven ability to work with diverse families and actively engage parents as essential partners in their child's education.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with students, parents, and colleagues.

• Complete and maintain 24.0 hours of professional development training per calendar year.

• Acquire and maintain certification in infant, child, and adult CPR.

• Acquire and maintain first aid and blood-borne pathogen certifications.

• Pass Criminal History Clearance and fingerprinting.

Responsibilities:

• Provide developmentally appropriate instruction using a research-based curriculum.

• Adhere to the daily schedule outlined in the curriculum and GSRP guidelines.

• Conduct developmental screenings and ongoing assessments, ensuring the use of age-appropriate instructional materials.

• Collaborate with the Early Childhood Specialist from Berrien RESA as needed to maintain high quality of programming.

• Participate in staff meetings, workshops, and scheduled program activities as required.

• Recognize the Assistant GSRP Teacher as a vital member of the teaching team.

• Work closely with the Assistant GSRP Teacher in planning lessons, participating in team meetings, addressing challenges, and making decisions.

• Monitor student behavior and provide support to ensure a positive and effective learning environment.

• Conduct home visits with the Assistant GSRP Teacher to engage parents as partners in their child’s education.

• Maintain accurate records for grant and licensing compliance.

• Document children's progress by creating and updating anecdotal records and portfolios.

• Manage and track classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

• Plan and coordinate parent and family engagement activities.

• Develop newsletters and informational materials to keep families informed.

• Work flexible hours as needed for family involvement activities, including home visits, district and ECC recruitment events, and other Early Childhood Center (ECC) activities.

• Implement and uphold the policies and procedures of Trinity Lutheran School and the Early Childhood Center.

• Ensure compliance with the policies and procedures set by the State of Michigan Child Care Licensing requirements.

• Demonstrate regular and consistent attendance.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Administrator.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Ability to climb stairs and playground equipment as necessary.

• Must be able to lift, push, and carry up to 40 pounds, including children and classroom equipment.

• Frequently sitting on the floor or in child-sized furniture is required.

• Responsible for cleaning and maintaining equipment and the facility as children transition throughout the building.

• Assist children with toileting and other self-care tasks as needed.

• Follow health and safety protocols when interacting with children who are ill or contagious, ensuring the well-being of all children, parents, staff, and oneself.

• Always adhere to universal precautions to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary and Benefits are determined by the Church Council, Board for Property and Finance, and the Board of Education based upon the qualifications and experience of the individual selected for this position. (

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $40,698.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,698