Preschool Head Teacher - Full Time (2s Classroom)
About The Position
The Preschool Head Teacher is responsible for the overall supervision and management of the Preschool Program for children ages 2. The role leads a classroom of up to 12 two-year-olds with a 1:6 teacher-to-child ratio. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Head Teacher plans and implements developmentally appropriate schedules, curriculum, and activities; ensures children’s safety and compliance with Community Care Licensing regulations; and builds positive relationships with parents. The role also includes food preparation, general housekeeping, participation in required meetings, trainings, and preschool events, and maintaining professionalism and adherence to branch policies. The position requires active engagement with children, including outdoor play and games, and the ability to respond to critical incidents and emergencies. The YMCA will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history in accordance with the San Diego County Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act. Applicants are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check until after a conditional job offer.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate.
- 24 units in Early Childhood Education (ECE).
- Minimum of 3 years working in a child care center or comparable group setting.
- Sincere interest in working with children ages 2–5 years old.
- Basic computer skills.
- Proficiency in reading and writing English.
- Physical and TB tests within 7 days of hire.
- Proof of current Measles (MMR), Pertussis (TDap), and Influenza immunizations within 7 days of hire.
- Pediatric CPR and Pediatric First Aid certification within 30 days of hire, unless specified otherwise on contract; certification must be from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute.
- Ability to relate well to children and adults and provide leadership and stability for program continuity.
- Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and physical ability to respond in emergencies.
- Physical ability to lead and participate in active sports, games, outdoor play, and activities with children.
- Dependability, a warm and friendly personality, and sensitivity to the needs of a diverse population.
Nice To Haves
- An Associate of Arts or Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education is highly desirable.
- Experience implementing emergent curriculum.
Responsibilities
- Ensure the supervision and safety of children at all times.
- Comply with Community Care Licensing regulations.
- Plan, supervise, and implement the program in accordance with YMCA goals and policies.
- Plan and coordinate activities that meet children’s developmental needs and interests.
- Interact consistently and fairly with children and treat them with dignity and respect in accordance with the YMCA Code of Conduct.
- Plan and implement the daily schedule and curriculum.
- Communicate effectively with parents and create positive relationships.
- Perform general housekeeping in the program space and prepare food.
- Attend mandatory staff meetings, trainings, and preschool special events.
- Maintain loyalty and professionalism and adhere to the branch dress code.
- Fulfill job responsibilities in accordance with program and branch goals.
- Lead and participate in active sports, games, outdoor play, and curriculum activities with children.
- Monitor children’s behavior, including situations requiring separation, and carry out housekeeping responsibilities.
- Respond to critical incidents and emergencies.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
