Preschool Expansion Teacher - Lead
THE YWCA OF PRINCETON INC
Location
Princeton, New Jersey
Salary
$65,000 - $70,000 / YEAR
Quick overview
The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a conducive learning environment and executing developmentally appropriate lesson plans using the Creative Curriculum framework. They must ensure the safety, security, and nurturing of children while maintaining accurate records and fostering positive relationships with students and parents.
Requirements summary
Candidates must possess a valid New Jersey Instructional Certificate with a P-3 endorsement and be able to provide college transcripts. Additionally, applicants must be proficient in English and Spanish and obtain necessary CPR/First Aid certifications within 90 days of employment.
Job description
Job DetailsJob Location
- Henry F.
- Pannel
- Learning
- Center -
- Princeton,
- NJ 08542Position
- Type:
- Full
- TimeSalary
- Range: $65,000.00 - $70,000.00 Salary/yearWhy Join YWCA Princeton? YWCA Princeton is a mission-driven organization dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We advance this mission through a wide range of programs that foster equity and expand opportunity for women, girls, and marginalized groups at every age and stage of life. Our offerings include early childhood education, English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, a Breast Cancer Resource Center, economic empowerment initiatives, racial and gender equity advocacy, and opportunities for professional development and community connection.
About the Role
Funding from the State of New Jersey Universal Pre-School expansion, and in partnership with the Princeton School District, the Universal Pre-K Lead Teacher for The Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center at YWCA Princeton is responsible for teaching subject matter in accordance with the Creative Curriculum & DOE guidelines. Must have personality, patience, creativity, and the ability to provide stability for program continuity and must be flexible to work between the hours of 8 am to 330pm. What You will Do: Here’s how you will contribute in this role: Create a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interest of students. Establish positive teacher-student relations. Responsible for the safety, security and nurturing of the children always assigned to the classroom. This includes both inside and outside the classroom and on field trips when applicable. Assist in gearing the program to the needs of the individual children, recognizing their differences, special interests, needs, abilities and styles and pace of learning socialization skills. Responsible for the execution of developmentally appropriate practice using an interdisciplinary approach using the Creative Curriculum framework. Prepare and maintain daily lesson plans in accordance with the Creative Curriculum framework. Evaluate students’ academic growth, keep mandated records, and prepare reports of progress as required. Document attendance, accident /incident reports, medication waivers, and daily care sheets for each child in compliance with the YWCA Princeton and licensing regulations. Monitor behavior in the hallways and playgrounds when necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the children Always treat all children with dignity and respect, recognizing that each has his/her unique qualities, gifts, and needs. Giving special personal attention to each child in the room each day, at the child’s eye level and with a pleasant tone Greet every child, parent, fellow staff and visitor with a smile and friendliness. Interact with children at their eye level and height level, using calm, natural and respectful tones of voice. Help children become aware of their roles as integral members of a group. Assist in ordered arrangements, appearance, and learning environment of the classroom. Assure safe and sanitary use and maintenance of all classroom equipment and supplies. Maintain open communications with parents and be available for conferences (during, before, and after school hours) Collaborate with other staff members and Directors to maintain an ethical and professional atmosphere. Attend all staff meetings and required training sessions, as well as childcare family events. Volunteer, when possible, for the YWCA Princeton-sponsored events. Assume any other duties as requested by professional staff at the YWCA Princeton Must model the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Function as a cooperative, productive member of the YWCA Princeton staff team QualificationsWe’re looking for someone who brings a combination of the following: Must be able to submit college transcripts along with a valid New Jersey Instructional Certificate with the teaching endorsement (P-3) Hold or get (within 90 days of employment) ARC, First Aid, CPR/AED certifications for child, infant, and adult. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills required. Ability to prioritize, be self-directed, and work independently. Ability to collaborate flexibly with a collaborative team of staff members and volunteers. The ability to work within procedures efficiently and manage several tasks concurrently to meet deadlines. Must be willing to collaborate with all people without regard to race, religion, ethnic origin, socioeconomic status, or disability. Must be knowledgeable in Microsoft Office Suite Ability to communicate fluently verbally and in writing in English and Spanish. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate computer keyboard and other office equipment. Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone. Seeing to read, prepare and review a variety of materials. Bending at the waist, kneeling, or crouching. Sitting for extended periods. We recognize that experience can come in many forms — if you meet most of the qualifications and are excited about the role, we encourage you to apply. Who You Are: Core Values & Competencies At YWCA Princeton, success isn’t just about what you do — it’s how you do it. We value team members who: Mission-Driven & Equity-Centered We work every day to eliminate racism and empower women. Equity guides our decisions, practices, and partnerships. Transparent & Trust-Based We foster open communication, clarity, and respect at all levels. Trust is the foundation of how we lead, collaborate, and grow. Growth-Minded & Learning-Focused We embrace curiosity, feedback, and professional development. Staff are supported in their growth and encouraged to innovate. Wellness & Care-Oriented We prioritize work-life balance and a culture of compassion. Our policies and benefits reflect a deep commitment to employee well-being. What You Can Expect: Work Environment & Accessibility: Work is performed in-Office This role may require [sitting, standing, lifting up to 50 lbs., etc.]. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities. Benefits and Compensation: We offer a competitive compensation package: Compensation range: $65,000.00 – $70,000.00, commensurate with experience. Paid time off, 13.5 holidays per year, and access to health and wellness benefits. Employees also receive professional development opportunities and are welcomed into a values-driven, people-first culture. All full-time YWCA employees are entitled to receive a 25% discount on childcare, classes, and summer program fees. Equal Opportunity Statement: YWCA Princeton is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state (including NJLAD), or local law.
Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary.
Benefits
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
- Health and wellness benefits
- 13.5 holidays per year
- 25% discount on childcare, classes, and summer program fees