Responsible for classroom operations through planning and implementation of a developmentally appropriate early educational activities.

Job Description

Do you love working with young children and making a difference every day? The Greater Holyoke YMCA is looking for warm, enthusiastic, and dedicated Infant, Preschool, & Toddler Teachers to join our Y Kids Learning Center team!

This is an exciting opportunity to help create a fun, safe, and engaging classroom where children can learn, grow, explore, and thrive. We are looking for someone who enjoys building positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers while bringing energy, creativity, and compassion into the classroom each day.

Qualifications

· EEC Lead and/or Teacher Certification required

· Experience working with preschool, infant, and/or toddler-aged children preferred

· Strong communication and teamwork skills

· CPR/First Aid Certification within 3 months

· Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations.

Essential Functions

· Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons and activities using program curriculum frameworks.

· Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment

· Support children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development

· Build strong, positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers

· Maintain ongoing communication with families regarding children’s growth and daily experiences

· Observe and document children’s progress and developmental milestones

· Guide and support assistant teachers and classroom staff in daily routines and responsibilities

· Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and safety standards

· Ensure compliance with EEC regulations and YMCA policies and procedures

· Collaborate with coworkers and administration to support overall program success

· Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities

· Encourage creativity, independence, and positive social interactions among children

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

· Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause.

· 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.

· Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgment.

· Functional Expertise: Executes superior technical skills for the role.

· Innovation: Creates and implements new and relevant approaches and activities that improve and expand the Y’s work and impact in the community.

· Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.

· Developing Self & Others: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential.

· Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.

Required Certifications

· EEC Lead and/or Teacher Certification required

· CPR/First Aid Certification within 3 months