The After School Kindergarten Enrichment Program will run Monday-Thursday from school dismissal (2:20pm) to approximately 5pm at Countrywood Primary School in the South Huntington School District. The goal of the program is to provide a cohort of Kindergarten children a Math and Reading curriculum that complements school day learning and reinforces the skills students need to successfully meet New York State Kindergarten Learning Standards. The program also incorporates elements of enrichment including but not limited to Science, Physical Fitness, Art, and Family Engagement that will be provided by a number of community partnerships.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Lead Teacher 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. The Lead Teacher works within the YMCA Philosophy of Education to ensure a safe, warm and welcoming environment, while following policies and procedures. The Lead Teacher will conduct student assessments, create individualized plans, facilitate family engagement, and oversee the Classroom Assistants. 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. The Lead Teacher maintains ratio and ensures the safety of children at all times.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:
• Implement a kindergarten math and literacy curriculum during afterschool hours, with the goal of providing children with the support needed to be successful in the classroom.
• Manage and fully supervise children, classroom (up to 18 children), an Assistant Teacher (1) and all activities.
• Conduct ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child in classroom.
• Maintain positive relationships and effective communication with parents. Engage parents and meet as needed to discuss child’s development.
• Share and discuss student progress with program team, and school day team and supervise performance as related to the curriculum and philosophy of the program.
• Maintain all records including attendance, incident reports, daily logs, and parent sign in and out book, in compliance with HR and Youth & Family procedures, state and other agency regulations as appropriate.
• Maintain classroom equipment, ensure healthy and safe classroom environment.
• Participate in YMCA special events.
• 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.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and trainings.
The Y: We’re for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
• Work continuously with the Director and school district to determine and establish key goals for the program and annually.
• Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.
• Adhere to all YMCA of Long Island standards, expectations and regulations.
• Maintain hygiene habits in accordance with CDC guidelines.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Valid NYS Teaching Certification (Preferably Early Childhood Education Birth – grade 2) & a Masters in Early Childhood Education, or a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood/Childhood Education is required.
• Minimum of two (2) years teaching experience in a group setting, preferably pre-k or kindergarten age children.
• Bilingual candidates preferred.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of youth development principles.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Knowledge of pre-k and kindergarten learning standards, development and curriculum, modern theories in early years education, and healthy living.
• Experience in curriculum implementation, classroom management of children and staff and effective parental communication.
• Knowledge of YMCA & South Huntington School District policies, procedures, and requirements.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communication with all levels including staff, parents, and community partners.
• Ability to problem solve and make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• 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.
• Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.
• Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position; including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50lbs.
HOW TO APPLY:
For immediate consideration, please email a resume, if available, and/or a cover letter to Nicole Dinolfo at Nicole.Dinolfo@ymcali.org.