UPK Head Teacher

YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester; Yorktown (NY); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational organization is seeking a passionate UPK Head Teacher for the 2025-2026 school year. This full-time position involves creating a nurturing environment for preschool children while adhering to state and YMCA regulations. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Early Childhood Education and a valid NYS Teacher Certification. Responsibilities include designing lessons, monitoring student progress, and collaborating with staff and parents. Join a dedicated team committed to fostering a safe and engaging learning atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Minimum age: 18 years.
• CPR/AED and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Prior experience working with preschool-aged children in an educational setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver engaging, interactive lessons for preschool children.
• Monitor children’s behavior, well-being, and safety.
• Collaborate with co-teachers and parents to support student progress.

Skills

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Leadership Skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

New York State Teacher Certification (Birth – Grade 2)

Job description

We are seeking a passionate and qualified UPK Head Teacher to join our educational team for the 2025-2026 school year. This full-time, 10-month seasonal position offers summers off and a competitive salary commensurate with experience. The UPK Head Teacher will be responsible for delivering a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate educational experience for preschool children, in alignment with all state, federal, YMCA, and district regulations.

The Head Teacher will implement the Pre-K On My Way Scholastic Curriculum and participate in all required training provided by the local School District. All applicants must hold full New York State certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth – Grade 2).

Key Responsibilities:

Design and deliver engaging, interactive lessons that support diverse learning styles.

Implement individualized instruction to meet the unique needs of each child.

Develop and distribute high-quality educational materials, including assignments, summaries, and notes.

Assess, document, and monitor student progress, providing timely and constructive feedback.

Create and maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment.

Collaborate with co-teachers, support staff, parents, and district representatives through meetings and conferences.

Plan and facilitate indoor and outdoor educational activities and school events.

Monitor children’s behavior, well-being, and safety, reporting any concerns related to neglect or abuse.

Serve as a positive role model, upholding YMCA core values: Respect, Responsibility, Caring, and Honesty.

Actively engage in ongoing professional development, including district-led seminars and trainings.

Assist in maintaining compliance with Pre-K On My Way Curriculum guidelines and YMCA preschool program standards.

Adhere to NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations and YMCA policies.

Maintain licensing ratios at all times while ensuring a safe, healthy environment.

Provide nutritious snacks and model appropriate mealtime behaviors.

Perform light housekeeping tasks to ensure a clean and safe learning environment.

Complete and maintain all required childcare documentation, including attendance records and daily health checks.

Work extended hours as needed on early dismissal days, snow days, and during school breaks.

Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with parents, children, and staff, addressing any concerns in collaboration with Preschool Lead Teachers and Early Learning Directors.

Complete 30 hours of professional development every two years (minimum of 15 hours within the first six months) per NYS OCFS regulations.

Uphold all YMCA policies and emergency procedures, including child safety and discipline guidelines.

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor or Early Learning Directors.

Qualifications:

Minimum age: 18 years.

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

New York State Teacher Certification (Birth – Grade 2) is required.

In-depth knowledge of early childhood development and age-appropriate practices for children aged 3-5.

Strong organizational, communication, leadership, and instructional skills.

CPR/AED and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

Prior experience working with preschool-aged children in an educational setting preferred.

Ability to build and sustain positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.