Childcare Opening and Closing Specialist

2026-2027 School Year

Morning Shift: 7:25am - 9:30am

Closing Shift 3:00 pm - 5:30pm



The Discovery Center has been a standard of excellence for childcares in the Kalamazoo area for 50 years! We were voted Best of Kalamazoo 2026, and Best of Michigan 2026. 



MISSION STATEMENT

The Discovery Center mission is to provide a nurturing “home base” that gives children the emotional security and creative freedom to explore the world around them with joy and wonder.

PHILOSOPHY

The Discovery Center philosophy is that true discovery only happens when a child feels safe and seen. Our philosophy centers on the “Whole Child”, ensuring that social and emotional stability acts as the launchpad for cognitive and physical exploration. We follow the child’s lead, turning their natural interests into deep learning experiences.

Position Summary:  The candidate must be dependable, punctual, organized, and welcoming. The candidate must support all staff and families during the transitional periods of drop offs and pick ups.  



Core Responsibilities:



Morning Drop Off Shift:

• Complete morning checklist

• Ensure you have the breakfast meal attendance sheet

• Set the classroom up, get supplies ready

• Greet each child by name, comfort as necessary

• Share any messages from parents to the classroom teacher

• Sit at the tables with the children during breakfast to ensure food safety protocols are being followed

• Engage with learners, play with them, read books, draw, etc.

• Ensure the area is cleaned up and the learners are ready to start their programming portion of the day

• Manage all behaviors that may arise

• Inform classroom teachers of any situations that arose and let them know all pertinent information

• Support in the classroom and complete tasks assigned by the classroom teachers



Closing Drop Off Shift:

• When entering the classroom acknowledge each child

• Ensure you have the snack meal attendance sheet

• Engage with all children while they are playing

• Complete duties as assigned by the classroom teachers

• Talk to the teachers to verify if any reports need to be discussed with parents or if there is any paperwork that needs to go home

• Manage all behaviors as they arise

• Greet parents when they arrive to pick up

• Check parent ID’s as needed

• Complete closing checklist

• Clean up the classroom and spray down toys with the #3 bleach solution before leaving



Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older

• High School Diploma or equivalent

• Minimum of 6 months of experience working in a childcare setting

• First Aid/CPR certified, if not we will provide training

• Able to pass the required background check

• Excellent punctuality and access to reliable transportation are mandatory



-Rate of pay is based on experience and education





To apply, please email dcboardkzoo@gmail.com and director@discoverycenterkids.org