Lead Preschool Teacher

YMCA OF PAWTUCKET•Pawtucket, RI

4d•$19 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Preschool Teacher supports the YMCA’s work strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the guidance of the Early Childhood Director and/or Education Coordinator, the Lead Teacher is responsible for the overall operation of an assigned classroom and for maintaining instructional standards aligned with the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards (RIELDS). The role involves creating a safe, supportive classroom environment; developing developmentally appropriate curriculum; assessing and communicating children’s progress; engaging with families; and completing required professional development, training, and meetings.

Requirements

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field from an accredited college, or at least 12 college credits in early childhood education.
At least three months of experience working in a classroom environment.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification within three months of hire.
Obtain or begin the requirements to obtain the RIELDS certificate within three months of hire.
Meet all DHS and YMCA employment qualifications.
Ability to walk, stand, and sit, including on the floor, for extended periods.
Ability to lift and/or assist children weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to lift and carry food and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
Ability to remain alert while standing or sitting for several hours at a time.
Ability to bend, lean, kneel, and walk as required.
Ability to speak concisely and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

Establish warm, professional rapport with children and families in the classroom.
Maintain classroom health and safety standards.
Develop integrated, developmentally appropriate, standards-based curriculum using RIELDS to promote children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
Maintain accurate attendance records and meal tracking through CACFP, if applicable.
Keep the classroom clean, including countertops, sinks, and tables.
Greet families and children as they enter or leave the classroom and/or building.
Ensure the Teacher Assistant understands the daily plan and can support children’s needs.
Support children’s social and emotional development and use positive guidance in the classroom.
Arrange the room appropriately for the children’s age and classroom goals, using ITERS-3 or ECERS-3 as a guide.
Observe and document each child’s progress through authentic assessment practices to inform instruction and curriculum, and communicate progress to families using TSG assessment tools and scheduled conferences.
Submit lesson plans according to the schedule provided at the beginning of each school year.
Maintain appropriate active supervision of children throughout the day, especially in bathrooms and on the playground.
Become familiar with DHS licensing regulations and the Family Handbook.
Participate in family engagement activities run by the center.
Develop a yearly Professional Development Plan aligned with RI Workforce Knowledge Competencies, including 20 hours of training in a related field.
Participate in staff trainings, parent/staff meetings, and other mandatory or required meetings during the year.
Complete duties or provide coverage as assigned by the Education Coordinator or Program Director.