Certified Lead Teacher- Preschool

Fairview Lake YMCA Camps; Maplewood (NJ); On-site; USD 45,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in youth development is seeking a dedicated Lead Teacher to inspire and nurture young minds. This role involves planning and implementing engaging classroom activities, mentoring staff, and fostering strong relationships with families. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Education and a passion for child development. Join a mission-driven organization that values healthy living and social responsibility, and make a difference in the lives of children and their families. Enjoy a supportive work environment that promotes professional growth and offers competitive benefits, including retirement plans and generous PTO.

Benefits

12% Retirement Contribution

403b Plan

Generous PTO Plan

Professional Development Opportunities

Complimentary Use of YMCA Facilities

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education required with 2+ years of teaching experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of youth development principles.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement classroom activities while supervising staff and children.
• Conduct evaluations of each child and maintain positive parent relationships.

Skills

Youth Development Principles

Classroom Management

Effective Parental Communication

Problem Solving

Team Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Education

Tools

Microsoft Applications

Job description

10 W Parker Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040, USA ● South Mountain YMCA, 13 JEFFERSON AVE, MAPLEWOOD, New Jersey, United States of America Req #509

Thursday, July 13, 2023

We are an all-inclusive organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission-focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven candidate to join our team.

SALARY: 45K-54K Annual

SCHEDULE: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Childcare Director, the Lead Teacher is responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of all classroom activities. This includes maintaining the physical appearance of the classroom to meet agency standards accordingly. He/she will supervise and train Associate Teachers and/or Teacher Assistants to comply with the YMCA’s policies and philosophy of education. The position is responsible for acting as a liaison between the Childcare Director and families participating in the program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Implement and design curriculum within the established guidelines, including daily lesson/activity plans.
• Manage and fully supervise children, classroom, teacher assistants, and all activities.
• Conduct ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child in the classroom.
• Conduct parent conferences and maintain positive relationships and effective communication with parents. Engage parents as volunteers.
• Share and discuss lesson plans with the classroom team and supervise performance as related to the curriculum and center philosophy.
• Mentor Associate Teachers/Teacher Assistants to enhance continued professional growth.
• Maintain all records including attendance, incident reports, daily logs, parent sign-in and out book, medical records, and time sheets, in compliance with HR procedures, state, and other agency regulations as appropriate.
• Maintain classroom equipment and ensure a healthy and safe classroom environment.
• Participate in Parents Advisory Committee events and YMCA special events including Healthy Kids day, open houses, and annual campaign events.
• Support and lead staff and parents in annual campaign efforts.
• Model and enforce appropriate positive discipline techniques as established by the policies of the center.
• Participate in required trainings and workshops to continue to enhance professional growth.
• Attend and participate in Family Nights, program activities, staff meetings, and trainings.
• Work with the Childcare Director to determine and establish key goals annually.
• Support branch and Association-wide goals, initiatives, and activities.
• Actively participate in Summer Camp programs.
• Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education
• Minimum of two (2) years teaching experience in a group setting, preferably with preschool age group.
• Proficient computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft applications.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of youth development principles.
• Knowledge of birth to age five (5) in development and curriculum, modern theories in early years’ education, and healthy living.
• Experience in staff supervision, curriculum implementation, classroom management, and effective parental communication.
• Knowledge of agency regulations, requirements, i.e., NAEYC, NJ Grow.
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with all levels including staff and parents.
• Ability to problem solve and make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission, and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model, and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications required.
• Maintain certifications as required. Must complete CARI Background Check, CHRI/Fingerprinting, and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be capable of being on your feet for long periods and be able to actively supervise children in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Must be capable of bending, kneeling, squatting, and lifting 30 pounds. Must be able to visually account for all children in the program, whether inside or outside. Must be able to hear whistles or alarms. A clear speaking voice is needed to command control of the group.

INTERNAL CANDIDATES:

Current active employees of the METROPOLITAN YMCA OF THE ORANGES should apply via the Careers section of the Dayforce Employee Account.

COVID-19 Precaution(s):

• Personal protective equipment provided
• Symptom screening and self-reporting
• Preventative guidelines/workplace safety trainings (social distancing, frequent handwashing, etc.)

*Please note that given the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, the YMCA is and will continue to follow recommendations given by the CDC, local, state, and federal authorities.

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package. Additional compensation includes 12% retirement upon eligibility, 403b plan, generous PTO plan, professional development opportunities, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA/employer M/F/D/V. Employment is subject to extensive background check.

Fairview Lake YMCA Camps is a nonprofit co-ed summer camp and conference center established in 1915 with recreational programs & services for all ages.