UPK Lead Teacher (Cohoes)

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area Inc•City of Albany, NY

22h•$19 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The primary function of the UPK Lead Teacher will be to play a vital role in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years old in accordance with the approved CCSD curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives. Your focus will be on creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment that fosters academic and social-emotional achievement. The classroom configuration is 18 students, one teacher, and one teacher assistant. This is a 10-month position (August 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the Cohoes City School District (CCSD).

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field from a regionally accredited college or university
Minimum one (1) year of professional experience working with youth between 3-5 years of age
Group leadership skills, including an understanding of group dynamics
Knowledge of principles related to the development of youth between 3-5 years of age
Valid NYS Teaching Certificate in Early Childhood Education B-2nd OR Masters equivalents such as Literacy B-2nd or Curriculum Development, OR Currently enrolled in a certification program
Mandated Reporter Certification
CPR and First Aid Training
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
Strong Computer Skills (Microsoft Office, Google Drive & Docs, Email)
Must pass a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, and sex offender registry check, as required by BGCCA

Responsibilities

Collaborate effectively with the Teaching Assistant to implement planned lessons, ensuring a safe and positive classroom environment.
Conduct regular evaluations and provide coaching to the Teaching Assistant based on the performance evaluation policy.
Actively participate in offered Professional Development opportunities by the CCSD and the BGCCA to enhance teaching skills and stay updated with best practices.
Develop engaging and interactive weekly lesson plans that align with the curriculum and meet the unique needs of each student.
Collaborate with the Teaching Assistant to effectively deliver the lesson plan and ensure all required materials are prepared and available in the classroom.
Utilize the curriculum to provide comprehensive academic and social-emotional programming that addresses each student's learning style.
Deliver innovative and hands-on classroom activities that align with predetermined units of study and address individual student needs.
Provide timely and accurate progress reports, attendance records, progress monitoring reports, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
Complete all required paperwork in an organized and timely manner.
Adhere to all health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district, including proper sanitation and disinfection procedures.
Monitor the health and wellness of students, promptly reporting any concerns to parents/guardians and administrators.
Ensure that all classroom students and staff are familiar with established emergency procedures, such as lockdown drills or evacuations.