Early Childhood Education Co-Teacher
Location: Kintsugi Village, Corktown, Detroit
About Kintsugi Village
Kintsugi Village is a dynamic, purpose-driven community space in the heart of Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood. We bring together early childhood education, the arts, culinary programs, retreats and wellness under one roof. At the heart of our work is a belief in the beauty of imperfection, resilience and lifelong learning — values we share with children, families, and our broader community.
Position Summary
We are seeking a passionate, reflective, and creative Early Childhood Co-Teacher to join our founding teaching team. This educator will play a central role in cultivating a joyful, inquiry-based, and relationship-centered learning environment for children ages 3-5. This role is grounded in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, emphasizing the image of the child as capable, curious and full of potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Help the Lead Teacher design and execute emergent curriculum based on children’s interests, questions and experiences.
- Assist with classroom preparation, daily activities, clean-up and transitions.
- Observe and engage with children throughout the day, encouraging exploration and discovery.
- Provide individualized attention to children to support their learning and development.
- Help create and maintain an engaging, aesthetically intentional and responsive classroom environment that reflects Reggio Emilia principles.
- Assist Lead Teacher with observing, documenting and reflecting on children’s learning experiences through learning stories, documentation panels and portfolios.
- Provide updates to the lead teacher about any notable observations or incidents.
- Assist with hands-on activities to meet the needs and interests of the children.
- Collaborate with fellow educators, atelieristas and families as co-researchers and co-learners.
- Establish strong, nurturing and respectful relationships with children and families.
- Participate in regular team meetings, professional development and reflective practice sessions.
- Engage with the broader Kintsugi Village community through interdisciplinary collaborations (e.g., culinary, art, wellness programs).
- Ensure the health, safety and well-being of all children in your care.
- Uphold licensing standards and organizational policies at all times.
- Report any safety hazards, incidents or concerns to the Lead Teacher or Director of Early Childhood Education.
- Assist the Lead Teacher with other tasks as they arise.
Qualifications
- Experience with observation-based documentation and project work.
- Ability to communicate effectively with children, families and colleagues.
- Reflective, collaborative and deeply curious about children and learning.
- Understanding and appreciation of the Reggio Emilia approach is a bonus!
What We Offer
A community that honors the “village” — where children, families and educators grow together.
Position Overview
A supportive, visionary team committed to building something meaningful in Detroit.
A beautiful, thoughtfully designed space that supports creativity and whole-child development.
Ongoing professional development in Reggio Emilia and related practices.
Competitive compensation and benefits package.
Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines (arts, food, wellness, retreats).