The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) is a critical part of Michigan’s education system serving the Greater Kalamazoo region and provides specialized services to schools and communities and optimizes resources by centralizing innovative programs and services. We partner with school districts and the broader community to offer essential programs including early childhood education, special education, career learning, and educator development, ensuring that learners of all ages receive the support they need.
We are currently seeking a Head Start/GRSP Lead Teacher in Kalamazoo County. The essential responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:
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Align services with KRESA Core Values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity) and Culture & Belonging principles to engage and serve all students
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Must have knowledge of and comply with Head Start Policies and Procedures, and State of Michigan Licensing for Child Care Centers
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Creates and implements curriculum/lesson plans incorporating hands-on activities and experiential learning considering factors such as individual needs, abilities, learning levels and physical limitations of students
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Confers with parents, administrators, specialists, social workers and others to implement the individual educational programs (IEPs) for students who are at different learning ability levels
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Creates a flexible environment that is focused on student success to maximize potential.
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Utilizes student assessment data to inform whole group, small group, and individualized instruction
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Implements program assessment tools with fidelity
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Establishes effective communication with parents regarding the progress of students and includes them in setting curricular goals for their child
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Implements Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS) in the classroom
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Maintains accurate and up-to-date child records and lesson plans
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Assist with delivery of Head Start services as defined by Head Start Performance Standards
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Establish a safe, healthy, stimulating and developmentally appropriate learning environment for all children
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Implement program curriculum with fidelity
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Observe and assess children’s development on a regular basis, analyze data and make plans or referrals specific to the needs of the individual child
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Provide daily direction and oversight to other classroom staff through positive communication, and coaching of desired behaviors and outcomes
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Build positive relationships with families to promote positive parent/child relationships including family events in the classroom and program, and take-home activities
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Work with program staff to provide comprehensive services to families and children
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Work in partnership with associate teacher and family advocate
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Regular and consistent attendance
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Other duties as assigned
Qualified candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with ZA/ZS endorsement, a bachelor's degree in early childhood education or child development, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Qualified candidates will have a valid Michigan Teaching Certificate.
Other skills and abilities include:
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Embraces and supports KRESA philosophies related to our core values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity), Culture & Belonging, and Continuous Improvement
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Embraces and supports KRESA’s vision of a transformative, equitable and innovative education for all in the Greater Kalamazoo region
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Ability to interact effectively with individuals from a wide range of identities and lived experiences
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Ability to discuss differences with colleagues and clients in a manner that supports building positive working relationships
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Has high expectations for all students
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Ability to effectively communicate verbally, and non-verbally
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Reflective practitioner willing to be coached
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Keeps site supervisor up to date of classroom status
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Ability to efficiently use computer and applicable software
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Ability to problem solve
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Maintains confidentiality
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Adapts to frequent changes in the work environment
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Practices safe work habits
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Develops and maintains atmosphere of teamwork
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Uses equipment and material properly
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Understands Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
This is a 10 month calendar position beginning in August 2026 in job grade 17e with an annual rate of pay between $47,220 and $58,330.
KRESA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefit offering that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits through Michigan’s Office of Retirement Services, tuition reimbursement, student loan forgiveness and wellness incentives – all within a supportive and caring culture centered around our values of collaboration, innovation, compassion, integrity, and respect.
A Great Place to Live and Work
Kalamazoo was recently recognized as a great place to live in the 2024 50 Best Places to Live roundup by Money.com. Kalamazoo was noted for its abundant family-friendly activities and appreciation for artisan-crafted goods, as well as the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship for each Kalamazoo Public School resident graduate that provides up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education.
Notice of Non-discrimination: It is the policy of Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency that no discriminating practices based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or sexual identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category be allowed during any program, activity, service or in employment. The following position at Kalamazoo RESA has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy: Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Contact information: 269-250-9200, 1819 E. Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49002.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
