Preschool Lead Teacher

The Preschool Lead Teacher is responsible for the day‑to‑day management of the classroom, including the organization, supervision, and safety of the children in their group. The role involves planning, supervising and implementing programs in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, philosophy and core values.

Essential Functions / Job Duties

• Plans and prepares for a learning environment, setting up interest centers, and preparing needed materials and supplies.
• Demonstrates, models and adapts the program to the needs of individual children with concerns for their interests, disabilities, special talents, and developmentally appropriate activities.
• Ensures that the arrangement, appearance, decor, and environment of the classroom are conducive to learning.
• Maintains excellent communication with parents regarding activities, progress, achievements, classroom behavior, and/or concerns.
• Practices and models appropriate discipline procedures in accordance with center policies.
• Complies with all licensing and grant requirements and regulations.
• Supervises classroom and children within program.
• Attends functions such as staff meetings and program events.
• Participates in ongoing professional development training programs.
• All other duties as assigned by Preschool Director or District Executive Director.

YMCA Competencies

• Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the YMCA’s efforts for all stakeholders. Implements effective systems to develop volunteers at program and fundraising leadership levels.
• Collaboration: Develops strategies to ensure staff and volunteers reflect the community. Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the YMCA. Communicates for influence to attain buy‑in and support of goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.
• Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves members and community in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.
• Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. Anticipates challenges that can sidetrack or derail growth and personal learning. 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, Skills and Abilities / Position Requirements

• Minimum of one year of experience working with children in a preschool environment.
• Must maintain current trainings and certifications as required by the YMCA, licensing agencies, funders and accreditation requirements.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to interact with individuals at all levels.
• State‑approved CPR/AED certification (must obtain within 30 days of hire).
• Applicants must be able to provide a current copy of the following: Dept. of Children and Families training transcript, 10‑hour in‑service training certificate, Staff credential verification letter.

Position Profile

• Individual with innate compassion and desire to teach children.
• Strong communication skills.
• High level of patience.
• Has the creativity and flexibility to make every day a positive experience for children.
• Organized and motivated.

Work Environment

Teachers work in classroom and outdoor environment. This position requires the ability to lift children ranging in weight, up to 50 lbs.

Physical Demands

The position requires the ability to perform physical work, maintain good health, full range of motion, manual and finger dexterity, hand‑eye coordination, corrected vision and hearing as needed. Occasional work under stressful conditions or irregular hours may be required.

Required

High School Diploma or better.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The YMCA of South Florida is committed to the policy of Equal Opportunity prohibiting discrimination in the workplace because of race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age, or disability.