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Lead Teacher - Infants and Toddlers

Lead Teacher - Infants and Toddlers

Detroit Academy of Arts & SciencesDetroit, Michigan, US
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Description

Position Description : The Lead Teacher - Infants and Toddlers is responsible for creating and maintaining a nurturing, developmentally appropriate, and inclusive learning environment for infants and toddlers (ages 0–36 months). This role ensures high-quality instruction aligned to Early Head Start standards, supports the healthy growth and development of young children, and works collaboratively with families and team members to implement individualized plans that meet each child’s needs.

Qualifications :

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field with a focus on infants and toddlers, strongly preferred.
  • A valid Infant / Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is required if degree is not directly aligned.
  • Must meet State of Michigan child care licensing requirements for Lead Caregivers in infant / toddler classrooms.
  • Previous experience working with infants and toddlers strongly preferred
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
  • Must pass required health screenings and background checks.
  • Commitment to continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements :   Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds; Frequent bending, sitting on the floor, and physical interaction with young children is required.

Terms of Employment :   Salary & benefits shall be paid consistent with the District's approved compensation plan. The salary range for candidates who meet all qualifications starts at $51,300. This is a full-time, 12-month position.

Evaluation :  Performance of this job will be evaluated by the Early Childhood / Elementary Principal in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on evaluation of personnel.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum & Instruction

  • Develop and implement daily lesson plans using an approved research-based curriculum.
  • Provide responsive caregiving and individualized instruction that supports children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
  • Conduct regular observations and assessments to inform instructional practices and track developmental milestones.

    • Health, Safety, and Compliance

  • Ensure a safe and sanitary classroom environment that meets all licensing, Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), and Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ITERS-3) requirements.
  • Follow all protocols for diapering, feeding, safe sleep, and active supervision in accordance with licensing and Early Head Start standards.

    • Family & Community Engagement

  • Build trusting, culturally responsive relationships with families and engage them in their child’s development and learning.
  • Conduct home visits and parent-teacher conferences to share developmental progress and collaborate on goals.
  • Partner with family support staff to identify needs and connect families to resources.

    • Leadership & Collaboration

  • Serve as the instructional leader of the classroom, mentoring assistant teachers and ensuring consistent, high-quality teaching practices.
  • Collaborate with staff and related service providers to support the holistic needs of children and families.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development, reflective supervision, and coaching.
  • Other duties as assigned.

    • Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

  • Strong understanding of child development, pedagogy, and effective instructional strategies.
  • Passion for integrating arts into the curriculum and promoting creativity in the classroom.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office and the Google Suite;
  • Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
  • Ability to adapt to a dynamic educational environment and contribute to a positive school culture.

    • We offer many exciting and innovative educational programs that are designed to develop young minds and prepare them academically, socially and emotionally for successful futures.  It is our goal to ensure that our students are prepared to interact in and contribute to the global society that will be before them as they graduate.

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    Infant Toddler Lead Teacher • Detroit, Michigan, US