Preschool Lead Teacher - HIckory

Under the direction of Sr. Youth Development Director, or branch specific designee, and in accordance with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the Preschool Lead Teacher will be responsible for planning and implementing all classroom activities and lesson plans. The Preschool Lead Teacher assumes shared responsibility for the welfare, supervision and safety of the children enrolled in the programs and will help to ensure quality programs, safe activities, and participant satisfaction.  Work towards the mission of the YMCA, while also fostering a love of learning within a community of quality, play-based education. 

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

• →Plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities for both large and small group settings that build on the preschool's curriculum 
• →Follow and implement age based curriculum activities and modify based on each child’s diverse abilities 
• →Develop and maintain an effective system of classroom behavior management 
• →Complete progress reports and developmental assessments as scheduled 
• →Communicate regularly with parents regarding class activities, developmental progress, and behavior concerns 
• →Lead check in and check out procedures 
• →Responsible for the supervision, safety and care of children in  the preschool area 
• →Drive classroom preparation and clean-up as well as that of common areas in the preschool 
• →Have knowledge of and enforce all applicable policies 
• →Send regular class emails detailing learning activities and class events 
• →Meet with parents as needed to address and manage developmental or behavioral concerns 
• →Provide mentoring and coaching to Assistant Teachers 
• →Promotion and implementation of YMCA mission 
• →Serve as an ambassador for the YMCA by positively communicating about other YMCA programs 
• →All YMCA staff are responsible for creating a safe, inclusive environment. This includes following all YMCA policies and procedures related to abuse prevention, reporting concerns or incidents immediately, and maintaining appropriate boundaries with youth and members.

• High School diploma or equivalency 
• Completion of at least two years of college education preferably in early childhood education
• Minimum of 3 years previous child care experience required
• The qualified candidate must be at least 18 years old 
• Completion of 20 hours of training in early childhood and curriculum best practices annually
• Ability to work with diverse populations 
• Strong oral and written communication skills 
• Completion of Basic Safety Series and Child Abuse Prevention trainings upon hire and annually thereafter
• Ability to work in a fast paced, team environment 
• Model the YMCA character traits of caring, respect, responsibility and honesty
• Coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred
• Previous experience working with young children in a childcare, preschool, or educational setting preferred