Y- Lead Playschool Teacher l Paygrade 5

Position Summary

Under the direction of Senior Youth and Family Director and the School Age Child Care & Preschool Director, The Lead Payschool Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging early childhood learning environment for preschool-aged children. The Lead Playschool Teacher will plan and implement age-appropriate activities that support social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development while maintaining YMCA standards, Wisconsin licensing requirements, and child safety best practices. The Lead Playschool Teacher will serve as a positive role model, foster meaningful relationships with preschool children and families, and uphold the YMCA’s mission, vision, and core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• College diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated interest in working with young children.
• Ability to maintain positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to actively participate in classroom and playground activities.

Qualifications

Preferred

• Coursework or experience in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field.
• Previous experience working with preschool-aged children in a group setting.
• Wisconsin Registry credentials or willingness to obtain.

Required Training & Certifications

• Completion of YMCA Child Abuse Prevention (Praesidium) training prior to start date.
• Successful background screenings.
• Completion of Abusive Head Trauma Prevention training.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification within 30 days of hire.
• Completion of all required Wisconsin DCF childcare training requirements.

Essential Functions

• Plan and lead developmentally appropriate activities for preschool-aged children.
• Create a positive, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Supervise children at all times and ensure their safety and well-being.
• Implement daily schedules, including learning centers, circle time, enrichment activities, outdoor play, and transitions.
• Make ongoing observations of children's development and communicate relevant information to families and supervisors.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with children, families, staff, and community partners.
• Follow YMCA behavior guidance practices and support positive social-emotional development.
• Maintain attendance records, incident reports, and other required documentation.
• Ensure the classroom and program areas remain clean, organized, and developmentally appropriate.
• Follow all YMCA emergency procedures and child protection policies.
• Report concerns, incidents, injuries, or licensing issues promptly to the School Age Child Care & Preschool Director.
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Uphold all Geneva Lakes Family YMCA policies, procedures, and standards.
• Ensure compliance with Wisconsin DCF licensing requirements and YMCA Child Abuse Prevention Standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and actively engage with children throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

YMCA Leadership Competencies

• Communication & Influence
• Inclusion
• Emotional Maturity
• Relationship Building
• Quality Results
• Functional Expertise

Benefits

• Complimentary Family YMCA Membership.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Meaningful opportunity to positively impact young children's lives and families.