Contact Person: Taurie Konkel

Job Location:
Peoples Church Preschool
200 W Grand River Ave
East Lansing, MI 48823

Job Description:

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

Closing Date for Job:  12/31/2026