POSITION SUMMARY:
The Lead Teacher, under the direction of the Early Childhood Director, is an experienced individual who will plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum, that supports and encourages the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of all students in the classroom. You will work within the YMCA Philosophy of Education to ensure a safe, warm and welcoming environment, while following policies and procedures. You will conduct student assessments, create individualized plans, facilitate family engagement, oversee the Assistant Teachers, who aid in the execution of activities. Responsibilities also include communicating effectively with the parents/guardians by keeping them up to date on their children’s progress and providing a nurturing and caring environment for the children.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Implement and design curriculum within the established guidelines, including daily lesson/activity plans.
• Manage and fully supervise children, classroom, Assistant Teachers and all activities.
• Conduct ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child in classroom.
• Conduct parent conferences and maintain positive relationships and effective communication with parents. Engage parents as volunteers.
• Share and discuss lesson plans with classroom team and supervise performance as related to the curriculum and center philosophy.
• Maintain all records including attendance, incident reports, daily logs, and parent sign in and out book, in compliance with HR procedures, state and other agency regulations as appropriate.
• Maintain classroom equipment, ensure healthy and safe classroom environment.
• Model and enforce appropriate positive discipline techniques as established by the policies of the center.
• Participate in required trainings and workshops to continue to enhance professional growth. (As per NYS OCFS Regulations of 30 hours every 2 years.)
• Works with Child Care Director to determine and establish key goals annually.
• Adhere to all NYS OCFS, Department of Health and YMCA of Long Island standards, expectations and regulations.
• Maintain hygiene habits in accordance with CDC guidelines
COMPETENCIES:
• Inclusion
• Emotional Maturity
• Communication and Influence
• Functional Expertise
• Critical Thinking and Decision Making
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Associate’s degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or related field; or Child Development Associate Credential or other NYS-recognized credential, preferred is a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Childhood Education.
• Minimum of two (2) years teaching experience in a group setting, preferably with preschool age group.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of youth development principles.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Knowledge of birth to age five (5) in development and curriculum, modern theories in early years’ education, and healthy living.
• Experience in staff supervision, curriculum implementation, classroom management and effective parental communication.
• Knowledge of YMCA policies, procedures, and requirements as well as NYS OCFS, NAEYC, DOH, and CDC.
• CPR, First Aid and AED certifications required.
• Child Abuse Prevention, Health and Safety from NYS OCFS within 30 days of hire.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will or may be required to: climb stairs, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach with hands, sit, stand for an extended period of time, lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, have finger dexterity, grasp, perform repetitive motions, talk, hear and have visual acuity.
• The work is performed both indoors and out, and may require travel to various locations.
• Plan, lead and participate in a variety of physical activities.
HOW TO APPLY:
Email your resume and cover letter to cindy.becker@ymcali.org and christina.ryan@ymcali.org.
SALARY RANGE:
Minimum: $20.27 p/h to Maximum: $30.40 p/h
BENEFITS:
• Signing Bonus
• Free membership to any YMCA of Long Island Branch
• YMCA program discounts
• Sick leave
• Referral Program (earn up to $200 for each)
• Retirement Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Incentives
• Paid Time Off
• Medical/Dental/Leave Insurances
The YMCA of Long Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are an open and inclusive organization, welcoming a diverse workforce free of discrimination based on protected class status, including race, religion/creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation or belief, military or veteran status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or family status, domestic violence victim status, arrest record or criminal conviction history, or any other impermissible basis.