Lead Teacher

Merrimack Valley YMCA; Andover (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading nonprofit as a Lead Teacher at the YMCA, where you will enhance community through youth development. In this role, you'll design and implement a curriculum, ensure safety and quality in a preschool environment, and uphold the YMCA’s mission. Ideal candidates have an Early Childhood Education degree and relevant certifications.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in a licensed Child Care Center required.
• Massachusetts Early Education and Care Lead Teacher Certification is mandatory.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications are needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead classroom team to plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum.
• Supervise children, plan lessons, and document observations.
• Ensure program quality meets YMCA standards and safety regulations.

Skills

Communication

Customer Service

Organizational Skills

Human Relations

Multitasking

Education

Associate or Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education

Job description

Job Details

Level: Experienced

Job Location: Andover Branch - Andover, MA

Position Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $20.00 - $25.00 Hourly

Job Shift: Day

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

The Lead Teacher will represent the YMCA professionally and in accordance with its mission and goals. Under the supervision of the Child Care Director, the Preschool Lead Teacher provides safe, motivational, and knowledgeable leadership to members, volunteers, families, and students. All YMCA staff will promote a culture of service excellence and support the YMCA’s mission and values.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead classroom team to plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum.
• Supervise children, plan lessons, monitor attendance, assist with daily routines like tooth brushing, develop quarterly online progress reports, and document observations.
• Ensure program quality meets YMCA National standards, EEC Standards, NAEYC Criteria, and safety regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and appearance of the classroom.
• Serve as a resource on child development issues.
• Prioritize safety and emotional wellbeing of staff, volunteers, members, students, families, and the facility.
• Model YMCA Character Values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility.
• Report accidents or incidents immediately with proper documentation.
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed for the organization’s success and remain flexible.

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in a licensed Child Care Center with toddlers, preschoolers, or kindergarteners.
• Massachusetts Early Education and Care Lead Teacher Certification required.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in Early Childhood Education.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care Licensing Regulations.
• Understanding of Massachusetts Early Childhood Standards and NAEYC Criteria.
• Strong human relations, communication, customer service, and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.