Preschool Head Teacher - Full Time (TK Classroom)

YMCA of San Diego County•Encinitas, CA
•$24 - $27

About The Position

The Preschool Head Teacher is responsible for the overall supervision and management of a preschool program for children ages 2 and serves as the lead teacher for a classroom of up to 12 two-year-olds, with a 1:6 teacher-to-child ratio. The role involves ensuring children’s safety, planning and delivering developmentally appropriate schedules and curriculum, maintaining positive relationships with families, and supporting program operations in accordance with YMCA goals and policies. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The listed pay range is USD $24.00–$27.17 per hour. Employee perks are referenced through a separate YMCA benefits link; specific benefits are not detailed in the posting.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate.
  • 24 units in Early Childhood Education (ECE).
  • At least 3 years of experience working in a child care center or comparable group setting.
  • Sincere interest in working with children ages 2–5.
  • 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 otherwise specified on contract; certifications must be from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute.
  • Ability to relate well to children and adults.
  • Warm and friendly personality, with sensitivity to the needs of a diverse population.
  • High dependability and willingness to fulfill job responsibilities in alignment with program and branch goals.
  • Physical ability to lead and participate in active sports, games, outdoor play, and activities; monitor behavior requiring separation; and perform curriculum and housekeeping responsibilities.
  • Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and physical ability to respond in emergencies.

Nice To Haves

  • An Associate of Arts or Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education is highly desirable.
  • Experience implementing emergent curriculum is preferred.

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 suited to 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 build positive relationships.
  • Perform general housekeeping of the program space and prepare food.
  • Attend mandatory staff meetings, trainings, and preschool special events.
  • Maintain loyalty and professionalism, adhere to the branch dress code, and fulfill responsibilities in accordance with program and branch goals.
  • Lead and interact with children during active sports, games, outdoor play, curriculum activities, and housekeeping tasks.
  • Monitor behavior, including situations requiring separation, and provide leadership and stability for program continuity.
  • Respond to critical incidents and emergencies using visual, auditory, and physical abilities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
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