Assistant Teacher at The Sunshine House in Grand Rapids, MI

From the beginning, our mission has centered on delivering safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Today, that commitment continues to guide our work as we support children, families, and team members through strong standards, professional practices, and a shared focus on quality early learning experiences.

Our mission is to provide a nurturing, safe, and enriching environment where children thrive and families feel supported. We offer activities that are specifically designed to encourage each child’s growth. Through cooperative play and creative activities, kids reach their social, emotional and physical milestones naturally and with ease.

We thrive on a strong sense of community, and our caregivers are a major part of our success. Beyond professional requirements, our staff are nurturing, attentive, and able to communicate with parents and children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in implementing the classroom curriculum, adapting to meet the unique needs of each child.
• Maintain a safe and nurturing environment where children can explore, play, and learn.
• Support children's development through structured activities, play, and positive behavior guidance.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to maintain classroom routines, organization, and effective communication with parents/guardians.
• Monitor and report children’s progress and any areas of concern to the Lead Teacher.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and classroom effectiveness.
• Follow health and safety protocols, ensuring a clean and secure environment.
• Cultivate positive relationships with children, families, and team members.
• Uphold company standards and comply with state licensing requirements.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience working with children in a childcare, school, or youth program setting is preferred but not required.
• Must meet all state licensing requirements for assistant teachers.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within a designated timeframe after hire).
• Ability to actively engage with children throughout the day, including sitting on the floor, bending, lifting, and participating in indoor and outdoor activities. Must be able to lift up to 30–40 pounds.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, families, and staff.
• Patient, nurturing, dependable, and flexible with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all children.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in spoken and written English with children, families, coworkers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders. Must be able to read, write, and comprehend English sufficiently to complete required documentation, understand policies and procedures, and ensure the health and safety of children.

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance and other supplemental insurance options
• Paid time off (vacation, holidays)
• Health and Wellness Programs, including counseling services and a free streaming workout subscription.
• 50% childcare tuition discount for employees or with participation in the TriShare program, employee parents pay 33% of tuition.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• A fun, supportive, and collaborative work environment
• And best of all…a fun-filled family atmosphere where every day brings an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and families!

Work Schedule:

• Scheduled working hours: 12PM-6PM, Monday through Friday. Hours may be adjusted or flexed based on classroom ratios and staffing needs to ensure compliance with state licensing requirements.
• No nights (outside of one monthly staff meeting after hours), weekends, or holidays.