Preschool Assistant Teacher - Heart House

Whatcom Family YMCA•Bellingham, WA

7d•$20 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA Early Learning Center at Heart House in the Puget Neighborhood is seeking an Assistant Preschool Teacher for a mixed preschool classroom serving up to 20 children ages 2.5 to 5, staffed by three teachers. This full-time position is 40 hours per week, with full-day shifts that may run from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Assistant Preschool Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment. The role fosters children’s curiosity and learning through play and supports their social, emotional, and physical development. The teacher works as part of a team, takes direction from and learns from the Lead Preschool Teacher, and is expected to be willing to grow and learn. The position is suited to someone who enjoys preschool-age children, can set boundaries and maintain classroom structure, and enjoys engaging groups in activities. The YMCA describes a supportive team and positive work environment, ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement, employee perks such as a free YMCA membership and program discounts, and work connected to its mission of helping children grow and thrive.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or equivalent.
Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate program activities.
Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
Current Adult, Infant, and Child CPR; First Aid; and AED certifications.
Complete Praesidium Child Abuse Prevention training within 15 days of hire.
Complete STARS 30 Hour Childcare Basic Training within three months of hire; this is unpaid training, with reimbursement available from Washington State.
Must have or be in the process of obtaining a negative TB test, HIV/Bloodborne Pathogen training, Safe Sleep training, a MERIT ID account, a Food Handlers Card, a cleared Portable Background Check from MERIT, and an MMR immunization record.
Willingness to obtain the ECE initial certificate or equivalent, approximately 12 credits.
Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions and safely supervise program activities.
Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
Ability to move around the work environment; the role also frequently requires sitting and reaching.
Vision abilities including close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting is preferred.
Some experience working with children in groups, preferably ages 2 to 5.
Previous experience with diverse populations.
Warm, nurturing approach and enjoyment of the preschool years.

Responsibilities

Assist the Lead Teacher with planning and implementing classroom activities that support the YMCA’s early learning curriculum.
Supervise children and ensure their safety and well-being at all times.
Promote positive behavior management and conflict-resolution skills.
Support individual learning styles and developmental needs.
Maintain a clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment.
Build positive relationships with children, families, and co-workers.
Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
Comply with licensing requirements and YMCA policies and procedures.
Support classroom structure and set boundaries with young children.