GSRP Lead Teacher

Location: Eagle, MichiganSchedule: Monday-Friday, 8:45 AM-4:30 PM, August-JuneCompensation: Competitive salary based on experience and Balancing the Scales recommendations About Us At Wacousta Cooperative Preschool (WCP), we believe early learning should feel like homewarm, engaging, and centered around play and relationships. Our mission is to create a nurturing, play-based learning community where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically through our cooperative model. We value community, inclusion, cooperation, and educational excellence and are proud to be a nonprofit, family-centered school that partners closely with parents to ensure each child's success. Why Join WCP? A collaborative, family-like atmosphere where your voice matters. A values-driven environment committed to equity, belonging, and joy. Professional development and leadership growth supported by the Director and Board. Competitive compensation aligned with qualifications and experience. Opportunities to shape the future of an innovative, community-based preschool. Position Summary The GSRP Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and assessing developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum aligned with the Michigan Early Childhood Standards of Quality and GSRP requirements. This position works closely with an assistant teacher and the program director to provide a classroom environment that is safe, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of our preschool community. You'll join a small, passionate team that believes in joyful learning, respectful relationships, and empowering children to become confident, empathetic, and independent thinkers. Key Responsibilities Develop and implement lesson plans consistent with GSRP curriculum guidelines, PBIS/Pyramid Model practices, and WCP's mission and philosophy. Foster a welcoming, inclusive classroom that supports social-emotional growth and encourages exploration, cooperation, and creativity. Maintain compliance with LARA, GSRP, and MiLEAP licensing requirements. Conduct ongoing child observation and assessment (3x annually minimum), sharing progress with families through conferences and communication. Build strong, supportive relationships with students and families through regular updates, family engagement events, and a monthly classroom newsletter. Supervise and collaborate with the assistant teacher to ensure safe, effective classroom management. Attend staff meetings, professional development, and cooperative preschool events. Uphold the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators. Model WCP's core values: empathy, community, inclusion, and lifelong learning.