Apple Playschools GSRP Assistant Teacher (Upper School)

Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) Assistant/Apprentice Teacher Summary: The Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) Assistant Teacher will provide high-quality, mission-aligned early childhood education for children in assigned classrooms and take an active role in the classroom leadership responsibilities. They will work with the lead/mentor teacher to implement the components of the Michigan Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) to ensure enrolled children demonstrate positive growth throughout the school year. GSRP Assistant/Apprentice Teachers are required to work a minimum of 30 hours per week in the classroom. Reports to: GSRP Mentor Teacher (direct supervision) Supervises: None Roles & Responsibilities: Embody and align with the mission, vision, and practices of the organization. Create a safe, secure, and stimulating classroom environment conducive to the physical, social, and emotional development of students. Ensure materials and activities represent diverse cultures. Support the social and emotional development of children. Provide input on lesson planning, documentation, and child assessments. Actively facilitate learning with children for at least 4 hours per day. Maintain daily communication with families via email, conferences, and home visits. Ensure compliance with all licensing regulations and follow all Apple Playschools policies, procedures, and best practices. Act as a mandated reporter for abuse and neglect. Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Mentor Teacher or Program Director. Active Participation in School Community : Serve as an “Apple Playschools Ambassador” in the community by spreading positive information about the program and communicating feedback to the Program Director. Required Events: Fall and Winter In-service Monthly staff meetings Two site events One signature event One external event GSRP county-wide staff training and meetings Key Responsibilities within GSRP: Collaborate professionally with GSRP lead teachers to provide optimal services for children. Develop and implement a comprehensive family engagement plan, including sharing knowledge, partnering for children’s learning, problem-solving at the child and program level, fostering parent leadership, and building strong school-to-home connections. Maintain and submit all required records for local education agencies per schedule. Secure and document professional development as required by the GSRP grant, child care licensing, Great Start to Quality system, and the certification required for the position. Actively participate in required GSRP county-wide staff training and meetings. Essential Requirements & Qualifications: Age Requirement: Must be 19 years or older. Educational Qualifications: Associate’s degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, or equivalent. OR a valid classroom CDA (Child Development Associate) credential. Experience: Previous experience teaching in early childhood education is preferred. Background Check: Must be able to pass all required background checks and criminal history review. LARA Licensing Requirements: Meet all applicable LARA licensing education requirements. Conflict Resolution: Must be committed to effective conflict resolution and maintain collaborative communication with staff, families, children, and community partners. Sound Judgment: Ability to assess risk appropriately and respond quickly and appropriately in emergencies. Physical Requirements: Ability to be on your feet for most of the day. Comfortably bend, move around with young children, and ascend/descend stairs. Ability to walk on uneven terrain, work outside in all weather conditions, and quickly respond in the learning environment. Exposure to environmental allergens (dust, animals, etc.). Ability to hold, carry, or lift up to 25 pounds. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to early childhood education while growing within a supportive and collaborative team. If you are passionate about shaping the future of young children and creating a positive learning environment, we encourage you to apply!