A Preschool or Childcare Teacher works with young children, usually ages 3 - 5, to help them learn the social, motor and language skills needed to be ready for kindergarten and elementary school. Organizes activities and uses play or games to help children learn; develops schedules and routines for children that include exercise and rest. Works in a school or in a childcare center or program.
Provides direction for the program and classroom, and implements program curriculum. Provides a quality experience to children and parents that focuses on the YMCA values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Implements curriculum within the established guidelines. Designs and implements daily lesson/activity plans meeting state benchmarks and standards. Supervises the children, classroom, and all activities. Makes ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child. Conducts parent conferences, and maintains positive relationships and effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers. Supervises classroom aides as assigned. Maintains program site and equipment. Maintains required program records. Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training. Participates in professional development activities on an annual basis.
YMCA COMPETENCIES
( Leader):
Mission Advancement :
Accepts and demonstrates the Y's values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Collaboration:
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person's point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Operational Effectiveness :
Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Personal Growth :
Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.
QUALIFICATIONS
Current certification by the New York State Education Department as a birth to Grade 2 or to Grade 6 teacher. At least 19 years of age. Valid New York State Drivers License A bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field, or a teaching license or certificate valid for services in the childhood grades, and a written plan to obtain a certification valid for service in the early childhood grades within five years. CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date. Minimum of 6 months previous experience working with preschool age children. Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred. Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities. Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to plan, lead and participate in activities. This is not an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities.
