Preschool Lead Teacher - Howard County

Ymca Of Central Maryland, Inc.; Columbia (MD); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedules

Paid time off

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Career development

Job summary

Ymca Of Central Maryland, Inc. in Columbia, MD seeks a dedicated Y Preschool Lead Teacher to plan, manage and supervise early childhood classrooms, including lesson plans, schedules and transitions, while adhering to state standards and the Y's educational philosophy.

You will ensure the health, welfare and safety of the children and create an environment fostering social, emotional, physical, cognitive and creative development to prepare learners for school and life.

Qualifications

• Enthusiasm for young children, patience, good humor, good judgment and a good spirit.
• Clear communication and effective listening to children, parents/guardians, members, and other Y associates.
• At least 1 year of early childhood experience.
• A high school diploma or GED.
• 90 hour child care certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead the classroom by planning, managing and supervising early childhood activities and transitions.
• Ensure health, welfare and safety of children in the program in line with state standards and the Y philosophy.
• Create a learning environment that supports social, emotional, physical, cognitive and creative development.
• Collaborate with colleagues to support children’s preparation for school and life.

Skills

Enthusiasm for young children

Patience

Good humor

Good judgment

Clear communication

Effective listening

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

7115 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, MD 21046, USA

Job Description

Posted Monday, August 17, 2026 at 4:00 AM

Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they've made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves. If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us.
At the Y in Central Maryland, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and generous paid time off, alongside medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as dependent care FSA. We offer a generous employer contribution to the Y retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement. Our commitment to fostering a positive work environment means you'll have access to training and development programs that align with our mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Join us and bring your passion to a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference!

How this role contributes to the Y's mission:

As a Y Preschool Lead Teacher, you will plan, manage and supervise early childhood classroom structure, including lesson plans, schedules, routines and transitions. The teacher will lead the classroom and support associates, while ensuring adherence to state standards & regulations as well as to the Y's philosophy and approach to early childhood education. You'll be responsible for ensuring the health, welfare, and safety of the children enrolled in our program. You will also create an environment which fosters the social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and creative development of each child in your care. As a Y Preschool Teacher, you'll contribute to the Y and to the overall community we serve by working with our littlest Y participants to help them prepare for success in school and life.

This work is right for you if you have:

• Enthusiasm for young children, patience, good humor, good judgment and a good spirit
• The ability to clearly communicate and effectively listen to children, parents/guardians, members, and other Y associates
• At least 1 year of early childhood experience
​ A high school degree or GED
• Your 90 hour child care certification

All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people. It emphasizes treating youth with respect and fairness, avoiding inappropriate physical or verbal interactions, and adhering to established standards of affection. The policy strictly prohibits any form of abuse, bullying, or harassment and mandates the reporting of suspected mistreatment. Additionally, associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.