Huntey's Clubhouse & gro Childcare Academy·Howard City, Michigan
The Lead Teacher is responsible for mentoring assistant staff and developing age-appropriate lesson plans to foster child growth. They must also maintain a safe, compliant classroom environment while communicating effectively with parents regarding developmental progress.
Huntey’s Clubhouse and Gro Childcare Academy. Founded in 1995, Huntey’s Clubhouse grew from a single center into what is now Early Learning Company, an organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care across multiple locations. From the beginning, our mission has centered on delivering safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Today, that commitment continues to guide our work as we support children, families, and team members through strong standards, professional practices, and a shared focus on quality early learning experiences. Our mission is to provide a nurturing, safe, and enriching environment where children thrive and families feel supported. We offer activities that are specifically designed to encourage each child’s growth. Through cooperative play and creative activities, kids reach their social, emotional and physical milestones naturally and with ease. We thrive on a strong sense of community, and our caregivers are a major part of our success. Beyond professional requirements, our staff are nurturing, attentive, and able to communicate with parents and children.
Key
Responsibilities: · Lead, coach, and mentor assistant teachers and classroom aides. · Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with the center’s educational philosophy. · Maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can explore and learn. · Establish and maintain open lines of communication with parents/guardians to share children’s developmental progress and achievements. · Collaborate with other teachers and staff to ensure consistent implementation of curriculum goals and classroom management strategies. · Uphold all licensing and state standards, ensuring that the classroom remains compliant with regulations. · Participate actively in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching practices and classroom management skills.
· Candidates must be at least 19 years of age and meet Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications for the position. Candidates must meet one of the following pathways: Pathway 1 o High school diploma or equivalent o 1 year (1,920 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting OR possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential · AND o MiRegistry-approved training, including: o 3 hours in Program Management, Observation/Documentation/Assessment, and Teaching & Learning o 6 hours in one or more of the following: o Interactions and Guidance o Challenging Behaviors o Trauma-Informed Practices OR Pathway 2 o High school diploma or equivalent o 6 months (960 hours) of experience working in a licensed child care setting · AND o 6 semester hours, 9 CEUs, or 90 clock hours of coursework in: o Early Childhood Education o Child Development o Child Care Administration o A child-related field · Ability to pass comprehensive background check requirements under Michigan Child Care licensing · CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain). · Ability to create a structured and creative learning environment. · Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with children, families, and co-workers. · Physically able to engage with children at their level, which may include lifting up to 40 lbs, bending, and sitting on the floor. Must be able to communicate effectively in spoken and written English with children, families, coworkers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders. Must be able to read, write, and comprehend English sufficiently to complete required documentation, understand policies and procedures, and ensure the health and safety of children.
· Health, dental, and vision insurance and other supplemental insurance options · Paid time off (vacation, holidays) · Health and Wellness Programs, including counseling services and a free streaming workout subscription. · 50% childcare tuition discount for employees or with participation in the TriShare program, employee parents pay 33% of tuition. · Opportunities for career growth and advancement · A fun, supportive, and collaborative work environment · And best of all…a fun-filled family atmosphere where every day brings an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and families! Work Schedule: Scheduled working hours: 7AM-3PM, Monday through Friday. No nights (outside of one monthly staff meeting after hours), weekends, or holidays.
Candidates must meet Michigan Child Care Licensing qualifications, which include a high school diploma and specific experience or credentials in early childhood education. Applicants must also pass a background check and possess or be willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification.
Market context
In Michigan, lead teacher roles in childcare are often competitive because centers need dependable educators who can manage full-time classroom routines while meeting strict health and safety standards. Candidates who show energy, nurturing communication, and experience in early childhood settings tend to stand out. Job requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original posting, saving you time when comparing options. Before applying, review the schedule expectations and highlight any experience with safety procedures and classroom leadership.
Assistant Teacher
Assistant Teacher
Assistant Teacher
