Y Scholars Teacher: Brace YMCA

Under the direction of the Youth Program Director, the Y Scholars Teacher is responsible for planning, developing, and implementing engaging curriculum for homeschool students. This role ensures a safe, structured, and enriching learning environment while fostering student development through interactive lessons, assessments, and classroom management. The teacher will collaborate with families and YMCA staff to create a supportive and engaging homeschool program that aligns with YMCA values.

Culture Statement:

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:

• Develop and teach age-appropriate curriculum that supports homeschool students’ academic and social development
• Plan, prepare, and implement lesson plans that align with the agreed-upon curriculum and educational goals
• Supervise and ensure the safety and well-being of all students in the program
• Assess student progress, communicate updates to parents, and adjust lesson plans as needed for individual learning needs
• Take attendance and maintain accurate records of student participation and progress.
• Work collaboratively with assistant teachers, volunteers, and program staff to enhance the student learning experience
• Set up and break down classrooms daily, ensuring a clean, organized, and engaging learning environment.
• Support positive behavior management by fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and encouraging classroom atmosphere
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and training as required
• Represent the YMCA professionally through positive interactions with students, families, and staff while promoting YMCA programs

Performs other duties assigned by leadership

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of two years of teaching experience or equivalent education in a related field
• Fluent in English with strong communication skills to engage with students, parents, and colleagues effectively
• Experience in lesson planning, curriculum development, or homeschool instruction
• Ability to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment that meets students’ individual needs
• Strong classroom management and leadership skills
• Commitment to the YMCA’s mission, values, and educational philosophy
• Ability to handle conflict resolution and create a positive and safe space for learning
• Strong organizational and time-management skills

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:

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical activities such as standing, sitting, and walking throughout the day
• Classroom-based environment with a structured schedule
• Frequent interaction with students, families, and YMCA staff in a fast-paced setting
• Requires prolonged standing, sitting, and engaging in hands-on activities
• May require occasional lifting, bending, and moving of classroom materials
• Flexible schedule may include some evenings or special program events
• Indoor teaching environment with occasional outdoor activities or field trips

Competencies:

1. DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential
2. INCLUSION: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence
3. COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause
4. EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations