Early Childhood Development Center- Lead Teacher

Plattsburgh YMCA•City of Plattsburgh, NY
•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Child Care Director, the Teacher Assistant and the Lead Teacher are responsible for planning and implementing the daily program as it relates to children and their classroom activities. Major emphasis is on program excellence and developing quality care of the highest standard. The staff will maintain ongoing program continuity by ensuring that schedules, programs and facility use plans are followed. The incumbent will supervise any staff and volunteers that are assigned to them, maintain a safe environment for all participants, and communicate with parents/guardians regularly. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image and core values of the Plattsburgh YMCA are conveyed. Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Requirements

  • Associate’s degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field; AND one year of experience related to caring for infants and toddlers; OR an Infant and Toddler Child Care and Education Credential, Infant Toddler Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or other recognized credential specific to the infant/toddler development period AND two years of experience related to caring for children. OR 9 college credits in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field, with a plan of study leading to an Infant and Toddler Child Care and Education Credential, Infant Toddler Child Development Associate Credential, other Office-recognized credential specific to the infant/toddler developmental period or an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field; and two years of experience related to caring for children, one of which must be related to caring for infants or toddlers.
  • Prior child care experience.
  • Maturity, responsibility, and a sincere interest in working with children.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and organization skills.
  • CPR/AED and First Aid certifications or the ability to obtain them within 60 days of employment.
  • Mandated Reporter training or the ability to obtain it before entering a classroom.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience implementing emergent, play-based curriculum.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice.
  • Experience implementing positive guidance and conscious discipline.
  • Experience building and creating responsive, nurturing relationships and classroom community.
  • Experience in conducting ongoing authentic assessment with child portfolios and teaching strategies GOLD assessment tool.

Responsibilities

  • Plan, prepare and execute an age-appropriate, values-based curriculum, including being ready and on-time for each class with all materials.
  • Maintain attendance and information sheets on each child enrolled in the program.
  • Plan events to involve parents and families in the program.
  • Maintain communication with parents through daily conversations, newsletters, and parent app.
  • Responsible for the overall classroom appearance, and related equipment.
  • Provide guidance to program assistants, and volunteers.
  • Attend all required meetings and training.
  • Maintain required certifications.
  • All other duties as assigned.
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