YMCA of Central New York·Syracuse, New York
The Power Scholars Teacher plans and executes instructional plans in literacy and math to prevent summer learning loss for low-income children. They are responsible for creating an engaging classroom environment and collaborating with staff and families to enhance academic performance.
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Our purpose is to strengthen the foundations of communities and families through our key areas of focus: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are committed to these causes because a strong community is achieved when we invest in our children, health, neighbors, and values. Historically founded on the Christian principles of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility; our mission is to put these principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are for ALL.
This position supports the mission and work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization. Under the direction of the Director of Education, the Power Scholars Teacher will ensure that the YMCA meets the needs of its members in the safest and most enjoyable atmosphere. The Teacher is responsible for focusing on summer learning loss by planning and executing instructional plans for low-income children living in urban communities and thereby enhancing overall youth development, academic performance, and graduation rates. The incumbent will teach, enrich, inspire, and transform children into scholars. The Teacher communicates and creates collaborative relationships with students, parents/guardians, Assistant Teachers, and other significant staff members. The Teacher provides leadership and assures the well-being for all, in line with YMCA of the USA guidelines and Association policies.
Implement literacy and math curricula and activities to meet academic standards. Utilize formal assessment data to refine and adapt curriculum lessons and inform instructional practices. Develop daily engaging lesson plans aligned to specific learning objectives. Deliver relevant, engaging, and rigorous lessons utilizing a variety of instructional methods. Maintain an organized and efficient classroom. Adhere to all Power Scholars Academy and/or district professional expectations and compliance issues. Create a positive, achievement-oriented, organized and engaging learning environment. Motivate and hold scholars to high academic and behavioral expectations. Provide consistent rewards and/or consequences for scholar behavior grounded in positive discipline. Empower scholars to make positive choices and serving as a role model. Be accountable for meeting scholars’ individual academic and instructional needs. Implement collaborative and co-teaching instructional strategies with Power Scholars Academy Assistant Teachers. Communicate effectively with scholars, families, Power Scholars Academy Assistant Teachers, and other staff members. Other duties as assigned by the Education Director.
Experience, Education and Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree is required; Master’s degree is preferred. Valid New York elementary, reading and/or special education teaching certification. Minimum of two-years of teaching experience, preferably with elementary children. In depth knowledge of subject area, and experience working with children. Previous and relevant experience in utilizing and implementing data-driven instructional practices. Mastery of and enthusiasm for literacy and math academic standards and instructional rigor. Ability to use technology (computer/internet) for assessment and instruction. Knowledge of differentiated instructional practices and strategies. Drive to improve the minds and lives of scholars within their community. Commitment to teamwork and collaboration with diverse populations. Proven track-record of high achievement in a classroom setting. Excellent communication (both verbal and written), organizational, and interpersonal skills are critical to the success of this position. Committed to the goals of the program and approach. Love and respect for children. Belief and commitment to the Y’s mission and values. Trainings & Certifications: Must complete online Bloodborne Pathogens, Employee Safety and Youth Protection Series trainings prior to initial assignment to position. Must hold CPR, AED, and First Aid (may be required at some branches) certifications or successfully complete no later than 30-days after employment begins. Must complete online Hazard Communication training within the first 90-days of employment. Must attend and complete Listen First within the first 90-days of employment. Trainings & Certifications: Must complete online Bloodborne Pathogens, Employee Safety and Youth Protection Series trainings prior to initial assignment to position. Must hold CPR, AED, and First Aid (may be required at some branches) certifications or successfully complete no later than 30-days after employment begins. Must complete online Hazard Communication training within the first 90-days of employment. Must attend and complete Listen First within the first 90-days of employment. Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience developing and implementing lessons with certified teachers. Develop collaborative and co-teaching strategies. Utilize data-driven and differentiated instructional techniques. Deliver lessons with high-quality and rigorous curriculum. Work with experienced staff in implementing positive discipline strategies. Engage in best practices to support achievement in under-resourced communities. Gain experience relationship building with scholars, staff professionals, and families. YMCA Leadership Competencies: Engaging Community: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit. Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause. Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs. Developing Self & Others: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential. Physical Requirements: The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Prolonged periods of standing and frequent bending. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at a time. Will be exposed to illness-causing bacteria and viruses. Work Environment: This job operates in a recreational and/or educational environment. This role routinely uses standard recreation and/or office equipment. At times, employees may be exposed to undesirable working conditions, communicable infectious diseases, and risk of injury from others. All employees are required to always follow the preventative health policies of the YMCA. The noise level in the work environment is moderate to high.
Market context
In New York, classroom teacher roles are typically shaped by steady school staffing needs and competition for educators who can demonstrate strong instruction and classroom leadership. This role is competitive because it calls for advanced chess knowledge, proven teaching experience, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities while supporting student success. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then tailor your application to show concrete teaching results and leadership examples.