Lead Teacher

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Lead Teacher will represent the YMCA personally, professionally and in a manner in accordance with the mission and goals of the YMCA.  The Preschool Lead Teacher, under the supervision of the Child Care Director, provides safe, motivational and knowledgeable leadership to the members, volunteers, families and program participants (students). All Merrimack Valley YMCA staff will help champion a culture of service excellence and support and advocate the mission and values of the YMCA.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead classroom team to plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum.
• Program responsibilities include, but are not limited to: supervision of children,  lesson planning, daily attendance , assisting  students with daily tooth brushing, developing quarterly  Creative Curriculum on line progress reports, daily  written observation of children                            
• Ensure and maintain quality of program and that it meets YMCA National standards, EEC Standards and NAEYC Criteria and complies with all safety regulations.
• Maintain the overall cleanliness and appearance of the Child Care Classroom.
• Serve as a YMCA resource in the area of child development issues. 
• Keep safety as a first priority.  Emphasize personal safety and emotional wellbeing of all staff, volunteers, members, students, families and program participants using the YMCA classrooms and indoor/ facility.
• By personal example help interpret quality of YMCA Character Values or Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
• Reports all accidents/unusual incidents immediately to the Child Care Director with all necessary documentation.
• Accept and perform all other responsibilities necessary for the good of the organization, remains flexible

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate/ Bachelor Degree or higher in the field of Early Childhood Education is preferred.
• Over 2 years of experience in a licensed Child Care Center in a Toddler, Preschool or Kindergarten classroom.
• Massachusetts Early Education and Care Lead Teacher Certification Required.
• Current CPR certification and First Aid throughout employment.
• Must know, understand and display full knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in the field of Early Childhood Education.
• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be familiar with Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care Licensing Regulations.
• Must be familiar with Massachusetts Early Childhood Standards and Guidelines and National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Criteria and Standards.
• Must possess and utilize excellent human relations’, communication, customer service and organizational skills.
• Demonstrate ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously