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!