Lead Teacher

YWCA of Binghamton•Binghamton, NY

3d•$22 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

Young Wonders at YWCA seeks a compassionate, energetic, and dedicated Lead Teacher to create a warm, nurturing, and engaging environment for children. The role supports community, encourages independence, and respects each child’s individuality. The ideal candidate enjoys working with children, brings creativity and patience, and thrives in a collaborative, dynamic environment. The Lead Teacher develops and leads programming that supports children’s emotional, physical, intellectual, and social development; maintains a safe, clean, organized, and stimulating classroom; and collaborates with aides, assistants, substitutes, families, and administration. The position reports to the Director or Assistant Director of Young Wonders regarding program operations, staff, children, and parent matters, and may serve as the Director’s designee when assigned. This is an in-person position described as part-time transitioning to full-time, with 40 expected hours per week. Pay is $22.00–$28.00 per hour.

Requirements

Meet one of the following qualification pathways: an associate’s degree in Child Development, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Recreation, or a related field and one year of experience working with children under age 13; a school-age child care credential or other OCFS-recognized credential specific to school-age development and one year of experience working with children under age 13; or a high school diploma or equivalent and two years of direct experience working with children under age 13.
Ability to relate joyfully and sensitively to children and families.
Emotional maturity and good judgment in handling challenging situations.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain program records.
Ability to supervise aides and support staff.
Physical stamina to work in an active childcare environment.
Current certification in Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED, or willingness to obtain it.

Responsibilities

Create and lead a program that supports the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social development of children.
Engage children in activities and encourage their active participation.
Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment.
Develop weekly lesson plans, activities, and field trips for children.
Delegate responsibilities and collaborate with aides, assistants, and substitutes to ensure smooth program operations.
Maintain positive and open communication with parents through informal daily interactions and formal documentation when needed.
Supervise, support, and help train program support staff.
Meet and maintain satisfactory scores on the Environment Rating Scale.
Work with administration to address behavioral challenges and implement guidance plans when necessary.
Maintain health and safety standards required by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS).
Maintain program documentation, records, and files.
Foster respectful relationships with children of diverse backgrounds and ensure every child is treated with dignity and respect.
Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development.
Assist with children’s toileting needs when necessary.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Serve as the Director’s designee when assigned.