Contact Person: Stephanie Marks

Job Location:
Refugee Education Center
1534 Kalamazoo Ave SE Suite 100
Grand Rapids MI 49507

Job Description:

The Floater Teacher is responsible for supporting high-quality, culturally and linguistically responsive early childhood education for refugee and American born children aged 0-5, as part of the Refugee Education Center’s Boston Square Early Learning program. With direction from the Center Director and Assistant Center Directors, the Floater Teacher will interact and develop relationships with the lead teacher, children, staff, families, volunteers, and other community partners in order to meet the unique cultural needs of each child enrolled.

Job Duties

Assist the Lead and Assistant Teachers in the following essential job functions:
Actively engage with children supporting the goals of the program and lesson plans based on curriculum
Supervision of the safety and wellbeing of children at all times
Build positive communication with classrooms including timely feedback during classroom coverage
Flexible and willing to move between classrooms depending on needs
Assist as needed in preparing for Family/Teacher Conferences
Attend and participate in required training and meetings as needed
Maintains daily documentation and keeps accurate records
Assist with and/or participate in Refugee Education Center projects and activities
Practices confidentiality in all aspects of their role
Communicates regularly with Administration on pertinent program details
Adheres to all policies and procedures stated in employee handbooks

*This duties list is not intended to be all encompassing, and this position may be asked to complete other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Previously earned 120-hour approval from the Michigan Department of Education, or
Valid Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) in Infant/Toddler or willingness to obtain/earn CDA credential within required time frame
1-2 years’ experience and knowledge of early childhood education and development principles and concepts desired
Experience working with diverse communities; ability to show cultural competence across communities served

Required Skills:

Ability to work within the context of a team
Ability to act with integrity, initiative, patience, and maintain confidentiality
Ability to mediate with compassion
Multi-lingual/literate with one of those languages being English
Excellent communication skills
Excellent time management skills
All staff members are expected to devote their best efforts and attention to the performance of their job and commitment to REC’s values: community, equity, integrity, and mutuality

Physical Demand & Working Conditions:

Position is identified as having regular contact with children in accordance with public law; therefore, a criminal background check and other EHS pre-employment requirements must be completed
Maintain up to date certifications (i.e., CPR/First Aid, etc.)
Must be able to communicate with clients and staff
Program activities take place in the center/site
Walking, standing, bending and carrying objects and children up to 30 lbs
Must be able to engage outdoors with young children for extended periods of time
Regular and predictable attendance is essential for this role

Closing Date for Job:  06/24/2026