Preschool Teacher - Full Time

About the role

The Westfield Area YMCA is a nonprofit human service organization dedicated to developing the full potential of every individual and family in the communities it serves through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. We are seeking a caring, enthusiastic, and dedicated Full-Time Preschool Teacher to join our Early Learning Center team, working with children in our two-year-old classroom. Our learning center is four-star quality rated through Grow NJ, offering a rewarding and professional work environment where passionate educators can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children every day.

The ideal candidate is reliable, dependable, nurturing, and genuinely enjoys working with young children. We are looking for an educator committed to creating a positive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports each child's growth and well-being.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the assigned classroom.
• Plan and implement age-appropriate activities and learning experiences that promote social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
• Accompany children up and down stairs (playground and front of building) to supervise activities such as outdoor play and fire drills.
• Set up cots/mats in classrooms.
• Participate in children's activities with the stamina and physical flexibility to communicate with children face-to-face.
• Assist in personal hygiene, including changing diapers in accordance with our diapering policy.
• Foster independence, creativity, and positive social interactions among children.
• Maintain a safe, healthy, and welcoming classroom environment at all times.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and fellow staff members.
• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, state licensing regulations, and health and safety standards.

Requirements

• Experience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in an early childhood education setting.
• Strong communication and classroom management skills.
• A genuine passion for supporting the growth and development of young children.
• Must have a CDA and a minimum of 1 year of experience working with children; or an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education.
• Must be creative and nurturing.

Required Certifications

• CDA (Child Development Associate).
• Must possess, maintain, and renew ASHI Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers and Professional Rescuers, ASHI Basic First Aid, EPI, and Asthma certifications or equivalent within 90 days of hire.