Assistant Preschool Teacher
Whatcom Family YMCA·Bellingham, Washington
Whatcom Family YMCA·Bellingham, Washington
Support the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and play-based learning environment for children aged 3-5. Assist with implementing the early learning curriculum and managing positive behavior and classroom organization.
The Assistant Preschool Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children ages 3–5. You’ll help foster a sense of wonder, facilitate learning through play, and support children’s social, emotional, and physical development. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about early childhood education and looking to grow within a supportive, mission-driven organization. Key Responsibilities Assist with planning and implementing classroom activities that support the YMCA’s early learning curriculum Supervise children to ensure their safety and well-being at all times Promote positive behavior management and conflict resolution skills Support individual learning styles and developmental needs Maintain a clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment Build strong relationships with children, families, and co-workers Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities Comply with all licensing and YMCA policies and procedures Why Work at the YMCA? Supportive team and positive work environment Ongoing professional development and training Opportunities for advancement within the YMCA Employee perks including free YMCA membership, discounts on programs, and more Be part of a meaningful mission to help children grow and thrive OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUITY: Everything we do at the YMCA is based on the ideal that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or identity, diverse abilities, age, religion, socioeconomic status or any other statuses or identities. Our work is focused on eliminating barriers to access, eliminating disparities in health, providing educational support, supporting working families, and growing our next generation of change makers for our country. YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader): Advancing Our Mission & Cause: Engaging Community, Philanthropy Building Relationships: Collaboration, Communication & Influence, Inclusion Leading Operations: Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Functional Expertise, Innovation, Program/Project Management Developing & Inspiring People: Developing Self & Others, Emotional Maturity QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years of age or older and a high school graduate (or equivalent). Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred. Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities. Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds. Current CPR (Adult, Infant & Child) and First Aid, AED certifications. Complete Praesidium Child Abuse prevention training within 15 days of hire. STARS 30 Hour Childcare Basic Training (Must be completed within 3 months of hire date) Must have or be in the process of obtaining the following: ___ Negative TB Test ___ HIV/Bloodborne Pathogen training ___ Safe Sleep ___ MERIT ID account ___ Food Handlers Card ___ Cleared Portable Background Check from MERIT ___ MMR Immunization Record 9. Willingness to obtain the ECE initial certificate or equivalent (approximately 12 credits). WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee needs sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to safely supervise program activities. The employee frequently is required to sit and reach, and must be able to move around the work environment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma and possess CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Requires various health clearances and a willingness to obtain ECE certification and STARS basic training.
Market context
Assistant preschool teacher openings in Washington are typically tied to ongoing demand for early childhood staff in licensed programs, where classrooms need consistent support and coverage. This role is competitive because employers often look for a CDA or progress toward one, plus familiarity with developmentally appropriate practices and required clearances. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your DCYF background check, Merit registration, TB screening, and Food Handler’s Permit before applying.
