Early Head Start Lead Teacher

Early Head Start Lead TeacherJoin the YMCA Jacqueline Baber-Bey Early Childhood Center and earn a sign-on bonus! New hires for Early Learning who apply on or after October 12 and start before November 16, 2026, are eligible for a sign-on bonus. Full-time staff can earn up to $800 throughout their first year, while part-time staff working an average of at least 10 hours per week can earn up to $500. Start your journey with the Y and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families!The Early Head Start Lead Teacher is responsible for the planning, developing, and implementation of EHS classroom activities and requirements. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program and may involve early morning responsibilities.Essential FunctionsPlans and leads daily lesson plansOrganizes and participates in games and activitiesProvides weekly lesson plans to parentsProvides each participant's parent with information on individual activities on a daily basisPrepares materials for daily activitiesMaintains records of attendance and arrival and departure timesMaintains supervision of childrenConducts parent-teacher conferences twice a yearAdministers the Brigance and PALS toolEstablishes a working relationship with Early Childhood Specialist, which includes offsite meetings and conferences.Conducts Home visits twice a year.Maintains the quality and quantity of supplies, equipment, and materials in the classroomDisciplines children and recommends or initiates other measures to control behaviorHandles parent concernsTravel to conference within state and out of state.Adhering to OHS guidelines and requirements for EHSPerforms any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand RapidsCompensation$22.88 - $24.96; Full Time; Non-Exempt (40 hours/week)BenefitsFree YMCA Family Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities & program discounts for you and your family!50% Childcare Discount – Discount is off the regular rate for each child enrolled in a YMCA childcare program, excluding the infant room.Comprehensive Medical Coverage – Up to 93% employer paid plan options through Blue Care Network.Dental and Vision Insurance – low-cost coverage options.Health Savings Account (HSA) – Receive up to $1,040 in employer contributions each year to help cover qualified medical expenses.Generous Paid Time Off – Beginning with 3 weeks of PTO per year, plus 9 paid holidays.Paid Parental Leave - Dedicated time off to support you during the arrival or adoption of a child.Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.Paid Disability Leave – short & long term disability coverage.Life Insurance – employer paid life insurance, plus voluntary coverage for the entire family.Optional Insurance – Customize your coverage with options like accident, hospital, pet, and legal insurance, plus more to fit your lifestyle and needs.Pay on Demand – Access your earned wages before payday.Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.Loan Forgiveness - Eligible employees can also take advantage of Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.RequirementsInfant Toddler CDA credential from an accredited college or Associates/Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education is required for this position. Three to six months childcare related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience required. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Ability and desire to work with and care for infants, toddler, and preschool children. Working knowledge of computers and experience with a variety of software applications.CertificationsBlood Borne Pathogen trainingCPR Certification required within the first 60 daysFirst Aid Certification required within the first 60 daysState of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)FingerprintingDHS clearanceWork Environment and Physical Demands:Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Travel:0 - 5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.