Teacher Lead I

Crossroads YMCA•Gary, IN
•Onsite

About The Position

The Teacher Lead I supports the YMCA’s work in strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The role provides direction for a preschool classroom, implements program curriculum, and supports students’ development through individualized progress plans. It provides a quality experience for children and parents centered on YMCA values of honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. The position is limited to the duration of the Preschool Program school session and may change based on local school trends.

Requirements

  • CDA Credential or associate degree in Early Childhood Education.
  • Complete 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 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 across social and economic segments of the community.
  • Computer skills with Office 360 and Google Applications.
  • Ability to communicate effectively using visual, auditory, and verbal abilities.
  • High level of alertness, concentration, and initiative.
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; occasionally stoop or bend.
  • Maintain a neat and professional appearance and demonstrate initiative and sound judgment.

Nice To Haves

  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education with a Kindergarten Endorsement.
  • At least 2 years of experience.

Responsibilities

  • Implement curriculum within established guidelines and facilitate programming in accordance with health and safety guidelines.
  • Nurture children through purposeful programming that promotes achievement and belonging, and build relationships with youth and families.
  • Supervise children, the classroom, and classroom activities, including ADA accommodations, while leading Teacher Assistants.
  • Make ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child.
  • Cultivate positive relationships with parents, conduct parent conferences, and maintain effective communication.
  • Engage parents as volunteers and connect them to 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 provide 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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