Assistant Teacher - Preschool

Westport Weston Family YMCA•Concord, TN

16d•$20 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher supports classroom activities and daily care routines for the Westport Weston Family YMCA preschool program, serving children ages three through five. The role helps create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where children learn through play and develop socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. The Assistant Teacher works with the teaching team and program administration to support positive family relationships, consistent child supervision, and high-quality programming reflecting the YMCA’s mission and values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. The Assistant Teacher assists Head and Lead Teachers with daily routines, play-based activities, classroom organization, active supervision, attendance, and child development and behavior support. The role also involves respectful communication with families, following safety and licensing procedures, completing assigned documentation, participating in staff meetings and training, and carrying out related duties assigned by program leadership.

Requirements

At least one year of childcare experience.
Experience supporting preschool-aged children and using positive behavior guidance.
Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
Ability to support children with diverse developmental needs and backgrounds.
CPR/First Aid/AED, Authorization to Administer Medication, and Child Abuse Prevention certifications, or ability to obtain them as required.
Successful completion of required background checks, screenings, and staff training.
Meet applicable state licensing eligibility requirements for assigned duties.

Nice To Haves

Fluency in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Assist the Head and Lead Teachers with daily classroom routines and care for children ages three through five.
Prepare and assist with play-based activities, art, stories, music, movement, and outdoor exploration.
Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment.
Actively supervise children and maintain accurate child counts during activities and transitions.
Prepare, clean, and organize classroom materials, learning centers, and activity spaces.
Maintain accurate attendance and follow authorized pick-up and sign-in/sign-out procedures.
Follow classroom plans and seek guidance from the Head and Lead Teachers when needed.
Participate in staff meetings, required training, and professional development.
Communicate classroom needs and concerns promptly to the Head and Lead Teachers.
Provide classroom support during staff transitions and assigned coverage.
Build trusting relationships with children and support their independence, confidence, and social skills.
Use positive guidance, co-regulation, and developmentally appropriate behavior support.
Adapt activities and care routines to children's developmental needs, abilities, and approved support plans.
Communicate respectfully with parents and guardians about children's daily experiences.
Refer sensitive concerns to program leadership and maintain confidentiality.
Support family participation and a positive connection to the YMCA community.
Follow YMCA policies, applicable Connecticut Office of Early Childhood requirements, and health and safety procedures.
Monitor classrooms, outdoor spaces, and materials for safety concerns and report hazards promptly.
Follow emergency procedures and report injuries, incidents, and suspected child abuse or neglect as required.
Follow approved allergy, medication, toileting, handwashing, meal, and rest-time procedures.
Complete assigned attendance, classroom, developmental observation, and incident documentation.
Track classroom supplies and communicate replenishment needs within approved procedures.
Participate in program planning, staff training, and classroom cleaning and reset days.
Perform related duties as assigned by program leadership.