Lead Teaching Assistant
Lead Teaching Assistant – Preschool
Peoples Church Preschool | East Lansing, Michigan
Full-time | Year-round
Peoples Church Preschool is seeking a motivated and experienced Lead Teaching Assistant to join our early childhood education team. This position provides leadership and support within the classroom, ensuring a high-quality, developmentally appropriate experience for children. Lead Teaching Assistants report to the Lead Teacher and Preschool Director and act as classroom leaders in the absence of the Lead Teacher.
The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood education, capable of mentoring peers, and committed to fostering a safe, engaging, and nurturing learning environment.
Schedule
Full-time, year-round position
Classroom hours typically between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., schedule may vary
Key Responsibilities
Classroom Leadership
- Serve as classroom leader in the absence of Lead Teachers
- Act as a primary caregiver for an identified group of children
- Provide guidance, direction, and feedback to other Teaching Assistants
- Support Lead Teachers in managing classroom routines, lesson facilitation, and transitions
Child Development & Interaction
- Engage directly with children, encouraging language development, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth
- Facilitate small groups and interest areas as needed
- Assist children in positive peer interactions and safe use of materials
- Support daily routines including meals, toileting, naptime, and indoor/outdoor play
Classroom Support & Maintenance
- Help maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming classroom environment
- Prepare and reset classroom materials, organize artwork, and manage children’s personal items
- Assist with lesson plan implementation to ensure children benefit fully from daily experiences
Professional Development & Team Collaboration
- Attend assigned trainings and professional development opportunities
- Collaborate with Lead Teachers and Director to problem-solve classroom challenges
- Take on additional responsibilities delegated by the Lead Teacher
Qualifications
- Minimum Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or certificate, or actively pursuing CDA certification
- Must meet minimum requirements for a Lead Teaching Assistant as defined by Peoples Church Preschool policy
- Ability to supervise children visually and audibly at all times
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Preferred Experience
- Previous work in a high-quality early childhood setting
- Familiarity with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards and Michigan Licensing (LARA) regulations
- Knowledge of health, safety, and early childhood best practices
- Experience leading or mentoring other staff members
- Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, sit, or walk for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
- Ability to provide constant visual and audio supervision of children
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors year-round
Working Environment
Lead Teaching Assistants work in a hands-on, collaborative early childhood classroom environment, with opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
Why Join Peoples Church Preschool?
- Work in a supportive, team-oriented environment
- Gain hands-on leadership experience in a high-quality early childhood setting
- Collaborate with experienced Lead Teachers and Directors
- Participate in professional development and family-focused events
- Make a meaningful impact on young children and their families