Child Development Academy - Assistant Director/Lead Teacher

About the Role

This leadership role combines administrative responsibilities with direct classroom involvement. You'll work alongside the Center Director to ensure a safe, nurturing, and high-quality learning environment while regularly serving as a Lead Teacher to support classrooms, maintain staff-to-child ratios, and model best practices in early childhood education.

Responsibilities

• Support the daily operations of the Child Development Academy.
• Help ensure compliance with Georgia Bright from the Start (DECAL) licensing regulations and YMCA policies.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and support to teaching staff.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and team members.
• Assist with staff scheduling, classroom coverage, and center operations.
• Step into classrooms as a Lead Teacher as needed to maintain ratios and ensure continuity of care.
• Develop and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans when serving in the classroom.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming learning environment.
• Assist with family engagement, special events, and other center initiatives.

Requirements

• Passion for early childhood education and child development.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to balance administrative responsibilities with hands-on classroom leadership.
• Positive attitude, flexibility, and commitment to teamwork.
• Dedication to the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• High School diploma or GED.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) in Early Childhood Education required.
• Associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
• Must enroll in a Georgia DECAL-approved Director Credential Program within 90 days of hire and successfully complete the credential in accordance with DECAL requirements.
• Minimum of one year of experience in a licensed early childhood education program required.
• Previous lead teacher or supervisory experience preferred.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and Fire Safety certifications (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to successfully complete a Criminal Background Check.

Benefits

• Competitive pay.
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance available.
• Employer-paid Life Insurance, and Short and Long Term Disability Insurance.
• Employer pays 12% of your pay into the YMCA Retirement Fund after vesting period.
• 10 Paid Holidays.
• PTO accrual begins after 6 months of service.
• FREE Family Metro Membership to the YMCA.
• Discounted Childcare at CDA.
• Professional development opportunities.