Preschool Teacher Assistant

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Newport News, VA

About The Position

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the Preschool Teacher Assistant provides a safe, caring, and learning environment for preschool participants in accordance with the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission and policies and Virginia Department of Social Services Child Care Licensing Standards. The role emphasizes high-quality service and working with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff. The assistant supports the preschool teacher with children’s supervision, behavior management, safety, activities, and communication with parents. The role also includes following applicable childcare and emergency procedures, participating in YMCA programs and fundraising efforts, and helping maintain a safe and positive experience for participants and the wider YMCA community.

Requirements

Must be at least 16 years of age.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
At least one year of experience in a related field in a supervised setting.
CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2 certification required within 30 days.
Proof of a negative TB test within the last two years.
Complete and maintain required training, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check, Virginia State Police background check, and Child Protective Services check.
Ability to observe children’s behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
Ability to communicate and work with assigned ages and skill levels and provide necessary instruction to preschool childcare participants.
Ability to plan, lead, and participate in appropriate childcare activities.
Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities.
Physical ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring first aid.
Physical strength and endurance to maintain constant supervision of children.
Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Medication Administration Training (MAT) Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Support the mission, vision, and goals of the YMCA.
Promote a professional work environment by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Lead in a manner that advances the YMCA’s cause through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Assist the teacher with supervision, behavior management, and safety of assigned preschool children.
Supervise children within sight and sound during assigned shifts, know their whereabouts, and maintain awareness of the number of children in the assigned group.
Assist with planning and preparing daily programs and activities for preschool participants.
Assist with preparation and cleanup of supplies and materials for daily activities.
Actively participate in organized group games and activities, including swimming, team-building activities, and arts and crafts.
Follow Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers and department Association standards.
Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
With the teacher’s assistance, communicate with parents about children’s needs and report daily activities.
Wear the staff uniform and name tag, or professional attire when appropriate.
Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
Act as a leader in emergency situations and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
Help ensure members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and follow the branch Emergency Operations Plan.
Carry out other related duties as needed by the Preschool Department and branch operations.