Early Learning Childcare Lead Teacher

About the role

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Plans and implements curriculum within established guidelines.
• Nurtures children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families.
• Supervises the children, classroom, and all activities, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
• Follows all procedures and standards.
• Ensures ongoing, systematic observations of individual children and consistently completes Developmental Portfolios and assessments.
• Cultivates positive relationships, conducts parent conferences, and maintains effective communication with families.
• Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA.
• Maintains program site, classroom environments, and equipment.
• Maintains required program records and documentation.
• Ensures and maintains confidentiality of children, families, and staff.
• Supervises, mentors, and coaches Assistant Teachers and other child care staff to support high-quality programming and professional growth.
• Aids in administrative duties, supporting the Program Director through problem solving, communication, and day-to-day program operations.
• Sets, participates in, and leads professional development opportunities for staff to support continuous improvement and high-quality programming.
• Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, trainings, and YMCA events.
• Ensures YMCA policies, licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and procedures are followed at all times.
• Maintains an environment that ensures children’s safety, well-being, and emotional development.
• Ensures zero tolerance for abuse and actively participates in the protection of youth and teens.

Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• Must meet Missouri licensing and/or NAEYC educational standards, including a minimum of 9 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or equivalent
• Possess at least 3 years of experience in childcare or early childhood education
• Demonstrated leadership, mentoring, and communication skills
• Ability to relate effectively to children, families, staff members, and volunteers
• Strong organization, problem-solving, and classroom management skills