Preschool Program Coordinator

YMCA of the Black Hills•Rapid City, SD

17h•Onsite

About The Position

At the Y, we believe every child deserves a place where they can feel safe, valued, and inspired to grow. This role is for someone who loves to teach, coach, and lift others up, all while creating a space where children and staff thrive. You'll be the lead teacher at our J-Heart partnership site, where you'll create a nurturing, structured environment where every child feels secure and valued. You'll provide consistency and care, knowing that stability in the classroom often means hope and healing outside of it. Many of the children in this program come from families experiencing challenges such as homelessness, addiction, or financial instability. Your patience, empathy, and ability to meet children where they are will be just as important as the lessons you teach. At Bright Start (previously Jump Start), the families we support are working to complete their high school education, better their lives, or work toward self-sufficiency. You'll step in to support the lead teacher and staff there, ensuring those children also experience the same stability, quality care, and encouragement while their parents work toward their goals. Whether a family is overcoming crisis or building a better future through education, your work provides the safety net children need to thrive. On that note, it's important to understand that safety is at the heart of everything we do. You'll ensure that each child is cared for in a secure environment that meets and exceeds our child abuse prevention standards. You'll maintain vigilant supervision, follow YMCA safety policies, and enforce state licensing requirements so every child in your care is protected. Your attention to detail, proactive mindset, and commitment to our safeguarding practices will provide peace of mind for families and staff alike. In this role, you'll plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate lessons that nurture academic, social, and emotional growth. You'll bring our YMCA Social and Emotional Curriculum, including Conscious Discipline, to life for children and mentor other staff in its use. You'll help shape a positive, encouraging environment where curiosity is celebrated, friendships flourish, and children feel safe exploring their world. You'll also be a leader of people, helping to recruit, train, and support the brightest staff and volunteers. Whether it's observing staff, offering guidance, or celebrating wins big and small, your leadership will set the tone for a culture of respect, growth, and fun. Working at the YMCA means being part of a mission-driven team that values belonging, hope, and community. As J-Heart Coordinator, you'll be shaping young lives, mentoring staff, and creating experiences that will ripple out into the lives of children and families. If you're ready to lead with care, mentor with purpose, and make a real difference in the lives of children, we'd love to welcome you to our team.

Requirements

Child Development Credential
At least three years of experience in a related field
Strong leadership skills
Passion for creating opportunities for children to thrive
Meet South Dakota childcare licensing requirements
At least 18 years old
Hold CPR and First Aid certification within 60 days of hire

Nice To Haves

Valid driver's license

Responsibilities

Serve as the lead teacher at the J-Heart partnership site.
Create a nurturing, structured environment where every child feels secure and valued.
Provide consistency and care for children from families experiencing challenges.
Support the lead teacher and staff at Bright Start to ensure children receive stability, quality care, and encouragement.
Ensure each child is cared for in a secure environment that meets and exceeds child abuse prevention standards.
Maintain vigilant supervision, follow YMCA safety policies, and enforce state licensing requirements.
Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate lessons that nurture academic, social, and emotional growth.
Implement the YMCA Social and Emotional Curriculum, including Conscious Discipline, for children and mentor staff in its use.
Help shape a positive, encouraging environment where curiosity is celebrated, friendships flourish, and children feel safe exploring their world.
Recruit, train, and support staff and volunteers.
Observe staff, offer guidance, and celebrate successes.
Shape young lives, mentor staff, and create impactful experiences for children and families.