EEC Preschool Lead Teacher

West Suburban YMCA | Newton, MA; Newton (MA); On-site; USD 38,572 - 45,460; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits package

Paid vacation and holidays

Professional development opportunities

YMCA membership

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Newton, MA is seeking a passionate EEC Preschool Lead Teacher. This full-time position involves designing curriculum for children, nurturing positive relationships, and ensuring a high-quality learning atmosphere. Candidates should have relevant educational credentials and experience, as well as certifications in CPR and First Aid. The role includes collaboration with parents and staff to foster an inclusive environment where every child can grow and belong.

Qualifications

• Minimum 9 months experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 27 months with an EEC certificate.
• Child CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum.
• Supervise children and maintain a safe classroom environment.
• Conduct evaluations and maintain communication with parents.

Skills

Effective communication

Child CPR and First Aid certification

Team collaboration

Culturally relevant programming

Relationship-building skills

Education

3 credits in Child Development

Bachelor's degree in related field

EEC Lead Teacher Certification

Job description

Join to apply for the EEC Preschool Lead Teacher role at West Suburban YMCA | Newton, MA.

Pay Range

Base pay: $28.00/hr - $33.00/hr.

Schedule & Pay

Full‑time teacher, 8:45 am – 5:45 pm, Monday–Friday. Preschool is open 7:45 am – 5:30 pm. Hourly rate $28.00–$33.00, depending on education, experience, and certifications. Generous benefit package, including 12% retirement contribution once vested.

Position Summary

Provides direction for the children in the classroom, implements program curriculum, and delivers a quality experience that focuses on building achievement and belonging. Transitions to a Camp Pikati leader during summer months. Models professional behaviors conducive to a collaborative, inclusive environment and encourages high standards and expectations.

Essential Functions

• Design and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum to meet the needs of all children during the school year.
• Design and implement developmentally appropriate programming to meet the needs of Camp Pikati during the summer months.
• Nurture children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families.
• Supervise children, the classroom, and all activities including ADA accommodations where appropriate; follow all procedures and standards.
• Actively support our DEIB statement and put into practice our commitment to equity, diversity, belonging and inclusion.
• Model early childhood best practices and positive classroom management techniques during the school year and positive day camp techniques during the summer months.
• Make ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child during the school year.
• Cultivate positive relationships and conduct parent conferences during the school year.
• Maintain effective communication with parents; engage parents as volunteers and connect them to the YMCA.
• Maintain program site and equipment.
• Conduct child assessments and report outcomes to families during the school year.
• Maintain required program records.
• Attend and participate in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training, including Camp Pikati training for the summer months.
• Plan and implement program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, and consistent with YMCA values.
• Adhere to YMCA, state, and local (Early Education & Care, Department of Public Health) standards including safety and cleanliness.
• Follow YMCA and EEC policies and procedures during the school year and YMCA and Department of Public Health in the summer, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.
• Maintain positive relations with parents and other staff; model relationship‑building skills in all interactions.
• Serve as mentor and role model to teachers, teacher assistants, and camp staff.
• Break times may vary due to the needs of the program. Local and federal labor laws are always followed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Experience Needed

• 3 credits in Child Development coursework plus 9 credits in three different categories of study within Early Childhood Education.
• Minimum 9 months of previous experience if you hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Minimum 18 months of previous experience if you have an Associate’s degree in a related field or a Bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field.
• Minimum 27 months of previous experience if you have an EEC certificate or an Associate’s degree in an unrelated field.
• Minimum 36 months of previous experience if you have a high school diploma.
• Child CPR, First Aid, AED certifications obtained within 30 days of hire date.
• EEC Lead Teacher Certification.
• Commit to supporting and further our anti‑racist work as an organization; learn about initiatives and articulate with members if needed.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age‑appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities with other staff team members.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Must have the ability and proven ability to report to work on a regular and punctual basis.
• Previous experience with diverse populations; ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Understand that the YMCA is a public accommodation committed to inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Flexible, creative and visionary.
• Possesses good judgment, specifically when making educational decisions.
• Maintain a positive, calm but enthusiastic attitude at all times.

Why the Y?

We’re a welcoming, mission‑driven team focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Be part of a place where you can belong, grow, and make a difference every day. The West Suburban YMCA rewards dedicated employees by offering a competitive benefits package that includes paid vacation & holidays, group health with vision & drug prescription, dental & life insurance, paid retirement once vested, YMCA membership, access to child care services, tuition reimbursement, and professional development opportunities.

Commitment to Inclusion

The West Suburban YMCA is a charitable organization that welcomes everyone by creating a community that hires individuals of any age, race, gender, religion, heritage, economic circumstance, or physical ability. We focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility to ensure all children, adults, and families are healthy, confident and connected.