Early Learning Childcare Lead Teacher

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Plans and implements curriculum within established guidelines.

• Nurtures children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families.

• Supervises the children, classroom, and all activities, including ADA accommodations where appropriate. Follows all procedures and standards.

• Ensures ongoing, systematic observations of individual children and consistently completes Developmental Portfolios and assessments.

• Cultivates positive relationships, conducts parent conferences, and maintains effective communication with families.

• Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA.

• Maintains program site, classroom environments, and equipment.

• Maintains required program records and documentation.

• Ensures and maintains confidentiality of children, families, and staff.

• Supervises, mentors, and coaches Assistant Teachers and other child care staff to support high-quality programming and professional growth.

• Assists with administrative duties, supporting the Program Director through problem solving, communication, and day-to-day program operations.

• Seeks, participates in, and leads professional development opportunities for staff to support continuous improvement and high-quality programming.

• Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, trainings, and YMCA events.

• Ensures YMCA policies, licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and procedures are followed at all times.

• Maintains an environment that ensures children’s safety, well-being, and emotional development.

• Ensures zero tolerance for abuse and actively participates in the protection of youth and teens.

• Performs all other duties as assigned.

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  Must be at least 21 years of age

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred

• Must meet Missouri licensing and/or NAEYC educational standards, including a minimum of 9 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or equivalent

• Possess at least 3 years of experience in childcare or early childhood education

• Demonstrated leadership, mentoring, and communication skills

• Ability to relate effectively to children, families, staff members, and volunteers

• Strong organization, problem-solving, and classroom management skills

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The incumbent provides direction for the children in the classroom and plans and implements program curriculum. Provides a quality experience to children and families that focuses on building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families. The Classroom Lead Teacher supports the overall success of the program through leadership, mentorship, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement.