Teacher Lead I

Crossroads YMCA•Gary, IN

About The Position

The Teacher Lead I supports the YMCA’s work to strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The role provides direction for a preschool classroom, implements program curriculum, and supports student development and growth through individualized progress plans. The Teacher Lead I provides a quality experience for children and parents grounded in YMCA values of honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. This position is limited to the duration of the Preschool Program school session and may change based on local school trends. Pay starts at $17.50 per hour and increases based on experience.

Requirements

  • A Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or an associate degree in Early Childhood Education is required.
  • At least 12 continuing education units annually.
  • Complete required training within the designated time after starting: Keeping Your YMCA Safe, Daxko 100, Listen First, Bullying Management, Meet Sam, Behavior Management, and 13 Baseline Trainings.
  • Obtain CPR/AED and First Aid certifications within 30 days of hire, and complete New Employee Orientation within 30 days of hire.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to relate and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
  • Computer skills with Office 360 and Google Applications.
  • Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to maintain alertness, concentration, and initiative; demonstrate sound judgment; and maintain a neat, professional appearance.
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; occasional stooping or bending may be required. The position may also require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking.

Nice To Haves

  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education with a Kindergarten Endorsement is preferred.
  • A minimum of two years of experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Implement curriculum within established guidelines and facilitate programming in accordance with health and safety guidelines.
  • Nurture children through purposeful programming that provides opportunities for achievement and belonging, and build relationships among youth and families.
  • Supervise children, the classroom, and activities, including ADA accommodations, while leading Teacher Assistant(s).
  • Make ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child.
  • Cultivate positive relationships, conduct parent conferences, and maintain effective communication with parents.
  • Engage parents as volunteers and connect them with the YMCA.
  • Maintain the program site and equipment responsibly and efficiently.
  • Maintain required program records, including attendance and disciplinary actions.
  • Lead classroom activities and behavioral management, and give work instructions.
  • Ensure students can attend classes in flexible settings and environments.
  • Assist with special events for students.
  • Play a role in securing gifts for the annual campaign.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
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