Preschool Teacher (Threes Classroom)

We are hiring a full-time Early Childhood Lead Teacher to join our team at the YMCA Dove Springs Tomorrow Academy (located in the 78744 area). This Monday–Friday position offers a meaningful career in early childhood education—plus 48 days of PTO, a free family YMCA membership, and more.

As a Lead Teacher, you’ll guide a toddler classroom with care, creativity, and a commitment to nurturing strong, secure relationships. You’ll support children’s early development, foster a love of learning, and create a warm, engaging space where every child feels seen, safe, and valued.

How you make an impact

• Create a caring and structured environment that supports the daily routines, emotional needs, and overall well-being of toddlers

• Lead engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and hands-on learning activities that spark curiosity and support school readiness

• Plan and implement lessons that promote growth across social, emotional, language, cognitive, and motor skill domains

• Foster a sense of self-confidence and emotional safety through intentional relationship-building and developmentally appropriate guidance

• Observe and track developmental progress, ensuring children are meeting key milestones and communicating updates with families

• Maintain daily communication with families, building strong relationships and sharing updates on children’s learning and development

• Keep classroom spaces clean, organized, and sanitized to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment

• Serve healthy snacks and follow all sanitation, USDA, and childcare licensing guidelines

• Collaborate with assistant teachers and program staff to create a consistent, supportive classroom environment

• Maintain all required records related to attendance, activities, meals, and child development

• Follow Texas Child Care Regulation policies to ensure the safety and well-being of all children in your care

• Incorporate nature-based learning and outdoor play into your daily routine

• Participate in staff development, team meetings, and ongoing learning to grow professionally

• Support the YMCA’s mission and values, contributing to a positive community culture

• Be a flexible team player and take on additional duties as needed

What you bring to the Y

• A bachelor's degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field—or a degree in another field with a CDA or state-recognized equivalent

• High school diploma or GED required

• At least 18 years old

• Experience working with young children (licensed childcare or NAEYC-accredited preferred)

• Current or willing to obtain CPR/first aid certification, a background check, and food handler’s certification

• Availability to work Monday–Friday with some flexibility as needed

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with emergent curriculum and best practices in early learning

• Bilingual in English and Spanish

What makes you a strong fit

• A caring, nurturing approach with children and families

• Strong communication skills—both listening and expressing ideas clearly

• Team player who brings a positive, solutions-oriented mindset

• Organized and able to manage time, tasks, and priorities effectively

• Open to learning and growing in your role

• Committed to inclusion and able to support a diverse classroom and team

Physical requirements

This role requires frequent movement including standing, sitting on the floor, walking, bending, and lifting items such as children or classroom materials. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.