What are the responsibilities and job description for the Master Preschool Teacher - Aracadia position at VALLEY OF THE SUN YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION?
Lead teacher in an early classroom, coordinates and implements academic curriculum for children ages 1 to 5 years at a program site. Provides immediate support and coaching to assistant teachers in the classroom. Interacts with school or organization and adheres to all ADHS (Arizona Department of Health Services) requirements.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF A MASTER TEACHER:
- Provides comprehensive leadership over an early learning age group (infants, toddler, preschool) ensuring high-quality education for one or more classrooms.
- Coordinates and implements early learning curricula aligned to Arizona state education standards.
- Provides mentorship, coaching, and immediate supervision of assistant teachers within the classroom.
- Utilizes approved parent communication tools, student portfolio systems, and curriculum software The Y: We’re for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
- Adheres to all applicable grant requirements related to classroom operations and documentation.
- Understands, implements, and maintains ADHS state licensing rules, regulations, and YMCA childcare program standards.
- Develops and maintains positive, professional relationships with children and their families.
- Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers to support classroom and program needs.
- Ensures all required site records, student files, and administrative documentation are completed accurately and maintained in a timely manner.
- Maintains quality condition, organization, and cleanliness of all classroom supplies, equipment, and materials.
- Follows all YMCA policies, procedures, and emergency protocols; completes incident and accident reports as required.
- Attends staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities as assigned.
- Incorporates the YMCA mission, philosophy, and four core values in all interactions with participants, families, and coworkers.
- Demonstrates cultural awareness and works effectively with the diverse populations within the local community.
*This is not an exhaustive list of job duties. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned.
REQUIREMENTS TO BE A MASTER TEACHER:
- 21 years of age or older.
- Bachelor’s degree and/or master’s degree in child development, early education, education, or a comparable field of study. Accepted Education Attainment Plan will be considered.
- Must possess or obtain, prior to working in ratio, an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card and a negative TB test.
- Minimum twelve (12) months of knowledge and experience in early childhood education or child development.
- Minimum twelve (12) months of experience working in a certified pre-school setting.
- Demonstrates mature judgment and sound decision-making abilities.
- Ability to communicate effectively with children, parents, peers, and supervisors.
- Ability to effectively communicate information related to YMCA Child Care Programs; must be observant, safety-conscious, and able to respond calmly and quickly in emergency situations.
- Current state-approved First Aid and CPR/AED certification.
FULL TIME BENEFITS:
- Employee Assistance Program
- Free YMCA Family Membership
- Employee Program Rewards and Discounts
- Paid Vacation & Sick Leave (Once Accrued)
- 403b Retirement Savings Account Upon Hire
- Professional Development Opportunities & Trainings
- 12% Employer Funded Retirement Plan (Once Eligible)
- Health Benefits Including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Insurance
OUR YMCA CULTURE:
The Valley of the Sun YMCA has been a trusted place of belonging, growth, and opportunity. We are for strengthening families, and creating opportunities for every child, teen, adult and senior to thrive. Guided by our call to Be Well. Do Good. Lead Change. Our goal is to expand access, deepen impact and secure a sustainable future for the Y across Arizona.
Valley of the Sun YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for this opening. Unless explicitly authorized by law, selection will be made without regard to, and there will be no discrimination because of, color, race, religion, national origin, marital status, parental status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age (40 or over), sex (including pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity, and sexual orientation), or on the basis of personal favoritism, or any other non-merit factors.
Our YMCA promotes a safe environment that is free from abuse. No form of abuse will be tolerated. All allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to in accordance with our Abuse Response Process.
This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.