Preschool Teacher - Elk Point/Jefferson

Position Details

Job Title: Preschool Teacher Status: Full Time Non-Exempt Department: Youth Development Reports to: Director of Youth Development

Position Summary

The Preschool Teacher plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that supports early learning, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness. Strong relationships with children and families are at the heart of this work. Guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.

Key responsibilities

• Foster a warm and supportive environment where children feel a sense of belonging and develop confidence through achievement. Lead the daily operation of the preschool classroom, managing early learning program routines, maintaining proper ratios, transitions, and lesson delivery. Ensure a physically and emotionally safe learning space for all children. Plan, implement, and adapt lesson plans that support early childhood learning objectives and encourage positive youth development. Actively supervise children and staff, using Pyramid Model strategies to promote social-emotional learning, respectful redirection, and maintain safety. Build strong, positive relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open and professional communication. Prepare and organize materials for daily activities. Ensure program space and equipment are clean, organized, and safe; promptly report any safety concerns. Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and family engagement events. Model professional behavior while following YMCA policies related to confidentiality, conduct, and behavioral expectations. Adhere to all local, state, and YMCA policies and procedures, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
• Model
• YMCA core values and use the
• Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing. Support and guide other staff in demonstrating these behaviors consistently across the program. Perform additional duties as assigned to support the program and broader YMCA mission.

Ymca competency areas

• Critical
• Thinking &
• Decision
• Making: Uses sound judgment and situational awareness to make informed decisions in the classroom setting.