Copy Of MECK Pre-K Program Assistant: Stratford Richardson YMCA

The MECK Pre-K Classroom Assistant supports the early childhood education program by ensuring a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for young learners. This role provides critical support to teachers, assists with child supervision, classroom preparation, and effective communication with families. The Classroom Assistant contributes to the overall quality of the classroom experience and smooth program operation by executing on support and administrative responsibilities.

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core principles. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead with Love and Serve with Purpose.

We Love unconditionally – showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interaction meaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevate Hope – promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion – listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a sense of belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity – sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.

We walk in Grace – showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith – staying grounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greater purpose. We treasure Honesty – communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when they occur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility – leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing the needs of others above our own.

We live with Joy – celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect – addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We value Responsibility – performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselves accountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service – going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential Functions:

• Provide classroom coverage and support during teacher breaks, transitions, and daily routines.
• Serve as a substitute working directly with students when needed due to Teacher or Assistant Teacher absences, following classroom routines and expectations.
• Assist with organizing and preparing instructional materials, classroom supplies, and bulletin boards.
• Supervise children during bathroom breaks, transitions, arrival, dismissal, and staff absences to maintain required ratios.
• Greet and assist families during drop-off, pick-up, and family engagement events
• Support attendance tracking, classroom records, and compliance documentation.
• Collect and organize teacher supply requests and submit for approval; assist with inventory management.
• Receive and serve meals according to food program guidelines; complete related documentation.
• Support health and safety standards by preparing sanitizing bottles, water jugs, conducting facility checks and assisting with medication intake and administration
• Help coordinate staff meetings, trainings, and distribute materials for parent orientation or program events

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required; coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred
• Prior experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting preferred
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, follow established routines, and remain flexible to program needs
• Must meet NC DCDEE requirements
• Ability to work a flexible schedule

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Working Conditions:

• Requires lifting, bending, sitting and kneeling on the floor, and interacting with children at their level
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Work is performed in a classroom, playground, and general school or center environment.
• Use of technology for classroom instruction, documentation and parent communication required
• Possible exposure to illnesses common to young children.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours required for family events, training, or staff meetings
• Act swiftly in the event of an emergency

Competencies:

1. EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations
2. COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause
3. COLLABORATION: Creates sustainable relationships within the Y and with other organizations in service to the community
4. PROGRAM/PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs