Preschool Teacher

General Function:
 
Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, the preschool teacher is responsible for the general supervision and management of an assigned group of children. With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Preschool Teacher will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.
 

Qualifications:
 
1. Minimum of 20 years of age.
2. Child Development Associate Credential, a two year or four year degree in Early childhood Education or related field, or commensurate teaching experience required; core competency and course work required per the Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers.
3. One year experience in the group care of children, as well as some supervision experience.
4. Working knowledge of Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers.
5. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2 required within 30 days of hire.
6. Proof of a negative TB test within the last two years.
7. Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to: New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.
8. Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
9. Medication Administration (MAT) Certification may be required upon hiring.

Essential Functions:
 
1. Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.
2. Promote a professional work environment through character development by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
3. Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of our community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
4. Develop a daily calendar of activities and lesson plans which stimulate learning.
5. Oversee the work of staff and volunteers in the classroom, according to the policies and philosophy of the YMCA.
6. Supervise the children within sight and sound during an assigned shift. Know the whereabouts of the children, and maintain knowledge of the number of children in the assigned group at all times.
7. Establish an environment that is educationally stimulating, safe, inviting and flexible for children.
8. Keep accurate attendance and incident reports for each child in compliance with state licensing requirements.
9. Submit request for diminishing supplies and/or materials needed to the Director.
10. Responsible for daily health checks and ongoing supervision of each child’s personal hygiene needs.
11. Daily communication with staff, parents and Director.
12. Attend staff meetings and in-service training programs to meet additional educational requirements established by the Department of Social Services.
13. Assist in public relations, attending parent and parent-child events related to the program.
14. Use and manage discipline within the classroom and demonstrate methods of positive behavioral control in accordance with the YMCA’s policies and philosophy.
15. Demonstrate a professional attitude and behavior at all times while on duty.
16. Wear staff uniform and name tag, or professional attire when appropriate.
17. Maintain strict confidentiality regarding individual children and their families.
18. Continue professional development through reading journals, community involvement and further education.
19. Maintain an overall clean and organized environment.
20. Follow department Association standards.
21. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
22. Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts to include Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
23. Act as a leader in emergency situations. Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.
24. Ensure all members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively follow branch Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
25. Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Preschool Director and branch administration to assure the overall success of the program and safety of the children and staff.

YMCA Competencies (Team Leader):
 
Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Emotional Maturity, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Developing Self & Others, Philanthropy

Skills and Ability Requirements:
 
1. Ability to observe children’s behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
2. Ability to communicate and work with assigned ages and skill levels and provide necessary instruction to preschool childcare participants.
3. Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities.
4. Physical ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and those situations requiring first aid.
5. Physical strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of children.
6. Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.