UPK Teacher Assistant

YMCA of Central Northern Westchester•Hawthorne, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA UPK Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children enrolled in the YMCA Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program. Under the direction of the Director, Assistant Director of Early Child Care Services, and Lead Teacher, the UPK Teacher Assistant will assist with daily classroom activities while supporting children’s academic, social, emotional, and physical development in accordance with YMCA standards, New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations, and Universal Pre-K guidelines. This is a part-time position that follows the school district calendar. Staff will support the classroom during the UPK school year and may be asked to work additional program hours during school closures, half days, snow days, and school holidays as needed.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to work as part of a team.
Demonstrates maturity, responsibility, patience, and a genuine interest in working with young children.
Knowledge of age-appropriate activities, child development, and preschool learning expectations.
Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for all children.
Demonstrates cultural awareness and sensitivity to children’s individual needs.
Ability to build children’s confidence while maintaining a safe and secure classroom environment.
All YMCA employees are expected to support the YMCA mission and create an environment that promotes youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Staff should model professionalism, teamwork, and the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Nice To Haves

Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred.
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred.
Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in Preschool preferred.
Experience working with children ages 3–5 years old preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist the Lead Teacher with daily preschool classroom activities including academic enrichment, physical activities, arts and crafts, music, story time, lunch, and snack routines.
Support classroom instruction and be prepared to lead activities in the absence of the Lead Teacher.
Become familiar with New York State Universal Pre-Kindergarten guidelines, YMCA Preschool program objectives, and OCFS regulations.
Help create and maintain a safe, healthy, positive, and engaging classroom environment.
Supervise children at all times while maintaining appropriate licensing ratios and safety standards.
Support children’s social-emotional development while fostering the YMCA character values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Provide children with age-appropriate, nutritious snacks while following program guidelines.
Assist with classroom organization, cleaning, and general housekeeping duties to ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Maintain required classroom documentation including attendance, health checks, participant records, and other child care records as needed.
Complete incident reports for injuries or illnesses requiring first aid and communicate concerns with families and leadership as required.
Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff while maintaining professional communication.
Greet children and families by name whenever possible and provide a welcoming YMCA experience.
Report classroom concerns, child needs, or program issues to the Lead Teacher and Early Learning Leadership Team.
Participate in additional program hours as needed for half days, snow days, school holidays, and special program needs.
Complete required NYS OCFS professional development training (minimum of 30 hours every two years, including required training within the first six months of employment).
Follow all YMCA policies and procedures including child abuse prevention, emergency procedures, medical procedures, and behavior management guidelines.
Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.