Lead Teacher

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Provides direction for the children in the classroom, and implements program curriculum. Provides a quality experience to children and parents that focuses on building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth within families.
Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

- Implements curriculum within the established guidelines, following the guidance and direction of the assistant director in charge of curriculum.

- Nurtures children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families.

- Supervises the children, classroom, and all activities including ADA accommodations where appropriate. Follows all procedures and standards.

- Makes ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child.

- Cultivates positive relationships, conducts parent conferences, and maintains effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA.

- Supervises Teacher Assistants in the classroom, including completion of performance evaluations.

- Maintains program site and equipment.

- Maintains required program records.

- Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff trainings.

- Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

- Must hold degree in Early Childhood Education or P-3/N-8 current certification.

- Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred, with strong understanding of youth development principles.

- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with all levels including staff, and parents.

- Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.

- Ability to problem solve and make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.

- Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.

- 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.

- Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.

- CPR, First Aid and AED certifications required.

- Maintain certifications as required. Must complete CARI Background Check, CHRI/Fingerprinting and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire.
BENEFITS:
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off (PTO), paid sick leave, paid holidays, a legal plan, long-term disability, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403 (b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities. Full-time employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.