Pre-K Lead Teacher - Full Time

About the role

The Pre-K Lead Teacher is expected to provide a safe and developmentally appropriate preschool education in accordance with all relevant legislation, policies, and procedures within the State of Pennsylvania as a Certified Teacher.

Pay

$25.00–$35.00 per hour

Benefits

• Free YMCA membership with access to all branches
• 50% off programming including swimming lessons and childcare programs (early learning care, before and after care, day camp, and overnight camp)
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Support from an engaged team within a community-focused nonprofit organization

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred, or related field with 60 ECE credits
• PA Instructional Level II in PNK or PK-4th preferred; Level I accepted with participation in a Teacher Induction Plan

Responsibilities

• Plan curriculum, including Flexible Instruction Plan, following prescribed curriculum and ensuring child-centered, age-appropriate lessons
• Adhere to learn-through-play NAEYC philosophy
• Ensure classroom staff actively participate in planning, implementing, and engaging in all activities
• Read and comply with YMCA policies, state licensing regulations (PA-DHS/NJ-DOE, OOL), and quality rating system standards (NAEYC, Keystone STARS, Grow NJ Kids)
• Supervise classroom staff to uphold DOE/OOL/DHS/YMCA/Keystone STARS/NAEYC guidelines for verbal interaction, play-based learning, and age-appropriate discipline
• Maintain accurate daily records of attendance, emergency contacts, trip binders, and allergy reports
• Facilitate effective and timely communication of child progress with parents
• Ensure staff demonstrate sensitivity, patience, and confidentiality while meeting individual needs of children and families
• Conduct developmental assessments and hold family conferences at least three times per year; report outcomes using designated systems (TSG/WSS)
• Ensure staff maintain cleanliness, proper setup of centers, and correct storage of toys according to DOE/OOL/DHS/YMCA/ECERS/NAEYC standards
• Engage children in maintaining classroom centers and resources
• Report concerns regarding facility, staffing, ratios, or developmental issues to the Director
• Plan and manage classroom resources, including materials, snacks, and staffing
• Balance small-group, teacher-directed, and child-choice activities as required by NAEYC/Keystone STARS
• Attend staff meetings, team teaching meetings, and Back-to-School Night
• Complete required trainings, including 12 hours of childcare-related training annually
• Stay knowledgeable of NAEYC guidelines, Association policies, risk management, safety practices, and applicable laws
• Lead by example with professionalism and accountability