Lead Preschool Teacher & Program Leader

YMCA of San Diego County; Encinitas (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of San Diego County seeks a Preschool Head Teacher to oversee the preschool program for children aged 4–5 in Encinitas. You will lead a classroom with a 1:6 ratio, ensure safety, plan activities, and maintain strong parent communication, while upholding licensing requirements and YMCA policies.

The role requires at least 18+, 24 ECE units (AA/BA desirable), 3 years in a childcare setting, English proficiency, immunizations, and CPR/First Aid certification within specified timelines.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age and a high school graduate.
• 24 units in Early Childhood Education (ECE). AA or BA in Early Childhood Education is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 3 years working in a child care center of comparable group setting.
• Sincere interest in working with children ages 2-5 years old.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Proficiency in reading and writing English.
• A physical and TB test within 7 days of hire.
• Proof of current Measles (MMR), Pertussis (TDap), and Influenza immunizations within 7 days of hire.
• Pediatric CPR and Pediatric First Aid certification required within 30 days of hire, from American Red Cross / American Heart Association / American Safety & Health Institute.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the supervision and safety of children at all times
• Comply with Community Care Licensing regulations at all times
• Plan, supervise and implement the program in accordance with the goals and policies of the YMCA
• Plan and coordinate activities that fit children’s developmental needs and interests
• Interact consistently and fairly with children, and treat them with dignity and respect in accordance with the YMCA Code of Conduct
• Plan and implement daily schedule and curriculum
• Communicate with parents effectively and create positive relationships
• General housekeeping of program space and food preparation
• Attend all mandatory staff meetings, trainings and preschool special events
• Maintain loyalty and professionalism at all times
• Adhere to branch dress code
• Must be highly dependable
• Has a warm and friendly personality, while having sensitivity to meet the needs of a diverse population
• Willingness to fulfill the job responsibilities in accordance with the with the program and branch goals
• Physical ability to lead and interact in active sports and games with children, monitor behavior requiring separation, and interact in curriculum activities and housekeeping responsibilities
• Able to relate well to both children and adults. Ability to provide leadership and stability for program continuity
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to respond in emergency situations
• Physical ability to lead outdoor play, games and activities
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Reading & writing English

Basic computer skills

Education

24 units in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

AA or BA in Early Childhood Education desirable

Job description

YMCA of San Diego County seeks a Preschool Head Teacher to oversee the preschool program for children aged 4–5 in Encinitas. You will lead a classroom with a 1:6 ratio, ensure safety, plan activities, and maintain strong parent communication, while upholding licensing requirements and YMCA policies.

The role requires at least 18+, 24 ECE units (AA/BA desirable), 3 years in a childcare setting, English proficiency, immunizations, and CPR/First Aid certification within specified timelines.