Early Childhood Group Teacher (West Side YMCA)

Description:

Full-Time

The West Side YMCA is seeking an Early Childhood Group Teacher who, under the supervision of the Early Childhood Director, plans and implements developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports and encourages the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of the preschool students. The Preschool Group Teacher works within the framework of the Center’s program to carry out its functions, policies, and procedures; including but not limited to: student assessments, work sampling, individualized plans, and parent/ family engagement. The Group Teacher works closely with Head Teacher.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure the health, safety and well-being of children in the program, by providing close supervision of all activities.
• Work with the Early Childhood Director to plan developmentally appropriate and engaging lessons and activities.
• Implement lessons and activities; including but not limited to literacy, arts, math, cooking, science, outdoor/indoor recreation, field trips, etc. 
• Work with the Early Childhood Director to develop classroom centers that respond to children’s interests and are coordinated with the ongoing curriculum.
• Facilitate student assessments and work sampling.
• Guide students in their academic growth. 
• Work with parents to promote understanding the growth and development of their child.  Effectively communicate with parents, verbally and in written form, throughout the school year.
• Encourage parent participation in special events, meetings, and in-class volunteer opportunities.
• Work with the Early Childhood Director on developing effective communication strategies. 
• Work as a supportive team member within the Early Childhood Learning Center and the YMCA Branch; and work closely with Assistant Teachers, Teacher Aides, Early Childhood Specialists, and Volunteers.
• Maintain a clean and safe classroom environment, by reporting and/or removing all potential hazards and by setting up spaces and materials with a focus on supporting child learning. 
• Conduct fire drills and manage emergency procedures in accordance with the guidelines of the Center and the YMCA of Greater New York. 
• Prepare food for children and maintain a family style setting for eating conducive to language, cognitive and social development, as well as the development of healthy habits.
• Maintain accurate program documentation; including by not limited to incident/ accident/ behavior reports, attendance sheets, sign-in/ sign-out sheets, development/ growth forms; document eating and sleeping, parent surveys, etc.
• Maintain equipment, storage, and supply inventory, as needed. 
• Ensure that all YMCA of Greater New York, Department of Health, and Department of Education (if applicable) guidelines are followed.
• Actively participate in designated meetings, all training sessions, and special events.
• Other activities and duties as needed that address the ongoing health and well-being of our staff and members
• Maintain sanitary habits in accordance with CDC guidelines

Qualifications: