Lead Teacher in Livingston, New Jersey at Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges Inc

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Provides direction for the children in the classroom, and implements program curriculum. Provides a quality experience to children and parents that focuses on building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth within families.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Implements curriculum within the established guidelines, following the guidance and direction of the assistant director in charge of curriculum.
• 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.
• Makes ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child.
• Cultivates positive relationships, conducts parent conferences, and maintains effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA.
• Supervises Teacher Assistants in the classroom, including completion of performance evaluations.
• Maintains program site and equipment.
• Maintains required program records.
• Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff trainings.
• Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Meets educational and experience qualifications established by state law.
• Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred, with strong understanding of youth development principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with all levels including staff, and parents.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Ability to problem solve and make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• CPR, First Aid and AED certifications required.
• Maintain certifications as required. Must complete CARI Background Check, CHRI/Fingerprinting and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire.

BENEFITS:

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off (PTO), paid sick leave, paid holidays, a legal plan, long-term disability, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403 (b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities. Full-time employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.