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.
SSENTIAL 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:
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 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.
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