YMCA Alexandria - Lead Teacher

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 57,308,000 - 66,125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement plan

403(b) plan

Healthcare

Free YMCA membership

Paid time off

Professional development

Career growth

Diverse team

Job summary

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is hiring a Lead Teacher for the Early Learning Program. You will plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities to foster social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth in young children, reporting to the Early Learning Director or Assistant Director.

Role focuses on collaborative curriculum delivery, family communication, and adherence to YMCA and NAEYC standards while creating a safe, engaging classroom environment.

Qualifications

• At least 20 years of age
• Current CPR & First Aid certification
• Physical exam and TB test
• Able to meet county/state licensing and background requirements
• Three years’ experience working with children and one year teaching in a licensed center
• A positive, collaborative, and creative attitude

Responsibilities

• Plan, supervise, and implement classroom programs aligned with YMCA goals and standards
• Create and deliver developmentally appropriate lesson plans
• Utilize the Creative Curriculum to support learning through purposeful play
• Design daily routines that make education fun, engaging, and meaningful
• Ensure a safe environment and monitor children closely at all times
• Communicate effectively with families, colleagues, and educational partners
• Maintain a warm, welcoming, and visually engaging classroom aligned with YMCA and NAEYC guidelines

Education

CDA or AA or BA or BS in Early Childhood Education or related field

Job description

Lead Teacher – Early Learning Program

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington

$20 per hour

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington, one of the largest charities in the DC area, is a mission-driven organization committed to nurturing the potential of children, promoting healthy living, and supporting social responsibility. When you join the Y, you join a cause — a career that is bigger than a job.

About the Role

As a Lead Teacher, you will play a key role in shaping the early learning experiences of young children. Reporting to the Early Learning Director or Assistant Director, this position is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that support every child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.

If you are passionate about early education, love using creativity in the classroom, and thrive in a collaborative environment — we want to meet you!

What You’ll Do

• Plan, supervise, and implement classroom programs aligned with YMCA goals and standards
• Create and deliver developmentally appropriate lesson plans with your expertise
• Utilize the Creative Curriculum to support learning through purposeful play
• Design daily routines that make education fun, engaging, and meaningful
• Ensure a safe environment and monitor children closely at all times
• Communicate effectively with families, colleagues, and educational partners
• Maintain a warm, welcoming, and visually engaging classroom aligned with YMCA and NAEYC guidelines

Qualifications

• At least 20 years of age
• CDA, AA, BA, or BS in Early Childhood Education or related field
• Current CPR & First Aid certification
• Physical exam and TB test
• Able to meet county/state licensing and background requirements
• Three years’ experience working with children and one year teaching in a licensed center
• A positive, collaborative, and creative attitude

Working Conditions

• Ability to sit or stand for long periods
• Physically active—able to participate in play and learning activities
• Lift up to 35 pounds
• Able to visually monitor children consistently

Why Join the YMCA?

We offer a supportive, inspiring, and mission-driven work environment, plus:

• Competitive pay
• 10% employer-funded retirement plan (vested after two years)
• 403(b) savings plan
• High-quality, affordable healthcare
• Free YMCA membership for you and your family
• Paid time off
• Professional development and career growth
• Work with talented, diverse, and creative people

Be part of a career that shapes the next generation.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is an equal opportunity employer and values a range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. We strive to be a welcoming organization where all staff, members, and communities feel respected, supported, and that they belong.