Preschool Teacher - Bennington Branch in Bennington, Vermont at Berkshire Family YMCA

About Company:

Berkshire Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) cause-driven nonprofit organization whose mission is to put Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility into programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

The Y’s Commitment to America is developing new generations of changemakers who will create communities we all want to live in. We envision communities where all people achieve health, gain confidence, make connections and feel secure at every stage of life.

The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow, and thrive.

CARING: Show a sincere concern for others

HONESTY: Be truthful in what you say and do

RESPECT: Treat each other as we’d all like to be treated

RESPONSIBILITY: Be accountable for your promises and actions

WELCOMING: We’re open to all and create spaces where you can be, belong and become

GENUINE: We value who you are and encourage you to be true to yourself and others

NURTURING: We’re with you on your path to reach your full potential

HOPEFUL: We believe in your ability to inspire a brighter tomorrow

DETERMINED: We work relentlessly to strengthen communities, starting with you

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: Empowering young people to reach their full potential

FOR HEALTHY LIVING: Improving individual and community well-being

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Providing support and inspiring action in our communities

About the Role:

As a Preschool Teacher, you will play a pivotal role in fostering the early development and learning of young children, typically aged 3 to 5 years. Your primary goal will be to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and social-emotional growth. You will design and implement age-appropriate lesson plans that promote cognitive, physical, and language development while supporting each child's individual needs. Collaboration with parents, caregivers, and colleagues will be essential to ensure a holistic approach to each child's education and well-being. Ultimately, your work will lay the foundation for lifelong learning and positive attitudes toward education in your students.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Vt State Teacher Qualified
• Must have high school diploma or GED completed
• Valid state certification or licensure for teaching preschool-aged children, as required by local regulations.
• Experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting.
• Knowledge of early childhood development principles and age-appropriate teaching strategies.
• Basic first aid and CPR certification.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preschool Teacher Experience
• Experience with inclusive education practices and working with children with diverse learning needs.
• Familiarity with state early learning standards and assessment tools.
• Training in classroom management and positive behavior support techniques.
• Bilingual abilities or experience working in multicultural environments.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that support early childhood learning standards.
• Observe and assess children's progress, documenting milestones and identifying areas where additional support may be needed.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming classroom environment that promotes respect, cooperation, and positive behavior.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians to share updates on their child's development and address any concerns.
• Collaborate with fellow educators and staff to plan events, share best practices, and continuously improve the preschool program.

Skills:

The required skills enable you to design and implement effective lesson plans that meet developmental milestones and engage young learners in meaningful ways. Strong communication skills are essential for building trusting relationships with children, parents, and colleagues, ensuring clear and supportive interactions. Observation and assessment skills help you monitor each child's progress and tailor instruction to individual needs. Organizational skills allow you to manage classroom activities, materials, and documentation efficiently. Preferred skills such as bilingualism and experience with diverse learners enhance your ability to create an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates cultural differences, enriching the learning experience for all children.