Head Teacher, Pre-Nursery

Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan•New York, NY

3d•$35 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan seeks a part-time Head Teacher for its Turning 2s and Shabbat Together pre-nursery programs for 2-year-olds. The position is available from January 2027 to June 2027 and could continue throughout the summer. Turning 2s is designed as a young child's first drop-off experience in a classroom setting. The pre-nursery programs are play-based, open-ended classes that encourage exploration, growth, and discovery. The JCC strives to create inclusive and engaging environments where children and families can become part of a community and develop lasting connections. The Head Teacher will collaborate with co-teachers and families, create an organized and inviting classroom, foster a safe and nurturing classroom community, and design developmentally appropriate, child-centered curriculum. The role includes team planning, staff meetings, professional development, and building positive partnerships with parents and caregivers. This is an in-person role at the JCC's community center on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Compensation is $35–$45 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in a classroom setting with two-year-olds, or an advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Knowledge of development and learning for children under 3.
Proactive and open to learning and growing with mentoring from supervisors and co-teachers.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Reggio Emilia, play-based, and child-centered learning.
Knowledge of Shabbat, Jewish holidays, and values.
Certification in infant/child CPR and First Aid.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with co-teachers to maintain consistent, meaningful communication with families through reflective emails, classroom updates, posts, and other forms of engagement.
Create and maintain an organized, inviting, and thoughtfully prepared classroom environment that supports children's independence, curiosity, and learning.
Foster a safe, nurturing, and joyful classroom community that prioritizes each child's well-being, development, and individual growth.
Design and implement innovative, open-ended, developmentally appropriate, and child-centered curriculum that encourages exploration, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences.
Work collaboratively with the teaching team to plan, implement, and reflect on curriculum that supports children's interests, needs, and developmental goals.
Bring a warm, kind, welcoming, and reflective approach to teaching, with a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Participate in dedicated team planning time, full-staff meetings, and ongoing professional development to strengthen teaching practices and foster a collaborative school community.
Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with parents and caregivers through thoughtful communication, active listening, and a commitment to family partnership.