What are the responsibilities and job description for the Early Childhood Teacher position at Heart of the Valley YMCA?
Company Description Heart of the Valley YMCA has served Huntsville and North Alabama since 1910, offering programs for children, teens, adults, seniors, families, and individuals. The organization is guided by core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, with a focus on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. Its mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, while ensuring no one is turned away due to inability to pay. Heart of the Valley YMCA serves more than 23,000 members through three locations, including multiple Early Childhood Education Centers in Huntsville and the surrounding area. Early childhood programs are designed to provide safe, nurturing environments that support children’s growth and development.
Role Description The Early Childhood Teacher is a full-time, on-site role located in Huntsville, AL at one of the Heart of the Valley YMCA Early Childhood Education Centers. This role is responsible for planning and delivering developmentally appropriate lessons and activities that support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of young children. The teacher creates a safe, inclusive classroom environment, supervises children at all times, and maintains clear communication with families about their child’s progress and daily experiences. Day-to-day tasks include implementing curriculum, observing and documenting child development, preparing learning materials, and supporting children with routines such as meals, rest time, and transitions. The teacher collaborates with other staff to uphold YMCA policies, meet licensing and safety standards, and promote the Y’s mission and values in all interactions.
Qualifications
Role Description The Early Childhood Teacher is a full-time, on-site role located in Huntsville, AL at one of the Heart of the Valley YMCA Early Childhood Education Centers. This role is responsible for planning and delivering developmentally appropriate lessons and activities that support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of young children. The teacher creates a safe, inclusive classroom environment, supervises children at all times, and maintains clear communication with families about their child’s progress and daily experiences. Day-to-day tasks include implementing curriculum, observing and documenting child development, preparing learning materials, and supporting children with routines such as meals, rest time, and transitions. The teacher collaborates with other staff to uphold YMCA policies, meet licensing and safety standards, and promote the Y’s mission and values in all interactions.
Qualifications
- Strong foundation in Early Childhood Education, including knowledge of best practices for teaching young children.
- Demonstrated experience in Teaching and Working With Children in preschool or early childhood settings.
- Skills in Curriculum Development, including planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities.
- Understanding of Child Development, including social-emotional, cognitive, and physical milestones.
- Ability to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing classroom environment aligned with YMCA values.
- Clear, professional communication skills for working with children, families, and colleagues.
- Ability to follow state licensing regulations, safety procedures, and organizational policies.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
- Relevant state certifications or credentials in early childhood education are a plus.
- CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).