Lead Teacher

YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas•Newport News, VA

9d•$14 - $18

About The Position

The Lead Teacher is responsible, under the supervision of the designated supervisor, for the general supervision and management of an assigned classroom of children. The role implements lesson plans and classroom activities to support children’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development. The Lead Teacher may supervise the program when the Director is absent and works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff. The position advances the YMCA’s mission and standards while maintaining a safe, educational, and well-organized classroom.

Requirements

Minimum age of 21.
Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred, or equivalent experience required; core competency and coursework required under the Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers.
At least one year of experience in the group care of children.
At least one year of staff-supervision experience.
Working knowledge of the Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers.
CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2 certification required within 30 days of hire.
Proof of a negative TB test within the last two years.
Complete and maintain required training, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training, upon hire and annually thereafter.
Satisfactory criminal background, Virginia State Police background, and Child Protective Services checks.
Medication Administration (MAT) Certification within 30 days of hire.
Ability to observe children, assess behavior, enforce safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
Ability to communicate and work with assigned ages and skill levels and provide instruction to preschool childcare participants.
Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards.
Physical ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring first aid.
Physical strength and endurance to maintain constant supervision of children.
Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Responsibilities

Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals and model its values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Implement developmentally appropriate preschool curriculum and classroom activities in accordance with YMCA goals and policies.
Supervise children within sight and sound, track their whereabouts, and maintain an accurate count of the assigned group.
Develop daily activity calendars and lesson plans that stimulate learning.
Oversee classroom staff and volunteers in accordance with YMCA policies and philosophy.
Maintain an educationally stimulating, safe, inviting, and flexible classroom environment.
Keep accurate attendance and incident reports in compliance with state licensing requirements.
Request supplies and materials from the Director or designated supervisor as needed.
Conduct daily health checks and supervise children’s personal hygiene needs.
Communicate daily with staff, parents, and the Director; attend staff meetings and in-service training.
Assist with public relations and attend parent and parent-child events related to the program.
Use positive behavioral-control and discipline methods in accordance with YMCA policies and philosophy.
Maintain professional conduct and appropriate uniform, name tag, or professional attire.
Maintain confidentiality regarding children and their families.
Continue professional development through journals, community involvement, and further education.
Supervise the program in the Director’s absence when assigned.
Maintain a clean and organized environment and follow department Association standards.
Provide ongoing staff supervision and training related to abuse risk and follow mandated abuse-reporting requirements.
Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
Lead in emergency situations, report accidents and incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan, and follow the branch Emergency Operations Plan.
Carry out other related duties assigned by the Preschool Director and branch administration to support program success and safety.
Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable laws.