Preschool Lead Teacher

Whatcom Family YMCA•Bellingham, WA

2d•$21 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA at Millworks is searching for a Lead Preschool 2 teacher. This classroom is for up to 20 children ages 3-ish to young 4, with 2-3 teachers. The children enjoy hands-on, play-based activities that foster their social-emotional skills. The lead teacher, with support from the director/assistant director, is responsible for the smooth operation of the classroom, supervising assistant teachers, fostering a positive and enriching classroom culture, and supporting parents. As a licensed center participating in Early Achievers, quality interactions and developmentally appropriate practices are essential. Applicants should be comfortable working with children who may have behavior challenges, supporting assistant teachers, and managing a classroom. Group experience with children ages 2.5-5 years is required. The daily schedule is Monday-Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. This position supports the YMCA's mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Lead Preschool Teacher maintains a supportive, positive atmosphere that respects all individuals, promotes youth potential, and provides a quality experience for youth and their families.

Requirements

Must be 18 years of age or older and a high school graduate (or equivalent).
Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred.
Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
Previous experience with diverse populations.
Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
Current CPR (Adult, Infant & Child) and First Aid, AED certifications.
Complete Praesidium Child Abuse prevention training within 15 days of hire.
STARS 30 Hour Childcare Basic Training (Must be completed within 3 months of hire date)
Must have or be in the process of obtaining the following: Negative TB Test, HIV/Bloodborne Pathogen training, Safe Sleep, MERIT ID account, Food Handlers Card, Cleared Portable Background Check from MERIT, MMR Immunization Record
Willingness to obtain the ECE initial certificate or equivalent (approximately 12 credits).

Responsibilities

Supervises the children, classroom, and all program activities.
Mentors and directs the focus of the Assistant Teachers.
Follows all procedures and standards as established by the law or the Y; makes ADA accommodations where appropriate; maintains the program site, equipment, and required program records.
Create and follow the Preschool daily schedule of activities, transitions, meals, and napping using best practices in early childhood learning and development.
Works in collaboration with the Director, Program Supervisor and Assistant Teachers to create and engage children in a play-based curriculum, with an emphasis on social-emotional development; and arrange the environment using the ECERS environmental rating scale.
Creates a positive rapport and shared interest with all youth.
Provides opportunities for youth to lead, problem-solve, and make decisions and choices within the program and provides daily opportunities for youth to reflect on and respond to their experiences.
Be comfortable engaging in large motor activities with children such as beginning swimming and rock climbing.
Collects documentation for use in child assessment and portfolios.
Provides and welcomes ongoing dialogue with parents and caregivers about their childs needs and progress; connects families to the Y.
Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training.
Completes and records daily cleaning list, consistently cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing classroom materials and surfaces.
Administers first aid, completes accident forms, and notifies the Lead Teacher, Program Supervisor, or Director.
Follows organizations policies and procedures regarding protecting youth from abuse; including screening and selection, training and supervision, and responding to allegations.
Communicate to all staff and volunteers the organizations commitment to protect youth from abuse.
Follows mandated reporting requirements.