The Summit Area YMCA·Summit, New Jersey
Create a safe and nurturing classroom environment to help preschool children develop academic, social, and emotional skills. Plan creative, developmentally appropriate activities to prepare children for a successful transition to kindergarten.
Description Imagine going to work each day knowing you are helping children build the skills and confidence they need for kindergarten and beyond. At The Learning Circle YMCA, it's more than just a job. It's an opportunity to inspire a love of learning while preparing young children for their next big milestone.
The Learning Circle YMCA, a branch of the Summit Area YMCA, is seeking a caring, energetic, and dedicated Pre-K Teacher to join our team. Teachers play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment where children develop the academic, social, emotional, and problem-solving skills needed for a successful transition to kindergarten. Working alongside a supportive team of educators, you will encourage curiosity, foster independence, and build strong relationships with children and families.
Love working with preschool-aged children and helping prepare them for kindergarten Have experience working in a preschool, childcare, or early childhood classroom setting Are patient, encouraging, and passionate about early learning Enjoy planning creative, engaging, and developmentally appropriate activities Build strong relationships with children, families, and coworkers Have strong communication, organization, and classroom management skills Thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented environment Are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for all children and families
We know that caring for children is important work, and we believe our employees deserve meaningful support and benefits.
Subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance Generous paid time off, including vacation, wellness, and holidays 50% discount on YMCA childcare programs, including Infant Care, Toddler Care, Preschool, Full-Day Kindergarten, Before & After School Care, and Summer Camp Free YMCA Family Membership One free YMCA class per family member each program session Ongoing professional development and training opportunities 12% employer retirement plan contribution upon eligibility Employee discounts on YMCA programs and services
Salary & Schedule This is a full-time position, working 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Teachers work 8-hour shifts scheduled between 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM. Compensation range for this role is $18.00 - $23.00 per hour, based on education and experience.
At the Summit Area YMCA, we are committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of gender, age, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. Our main purpose is to strengthen community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone can reach their full potential and we strive to live our cause with purpose every day. No matter who you are or where you’re from, we believe that we’re stronger when we come together.
High School Diploma or equivalent required CDA, Associate's Degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred At least one year of experience working with children in a licensed childcare center, preschool, or school setting Experience working with preschool-aged children preferred Strong leadership, communication, planning, and organizational skills Willingness to learn, grow professionally, and participate in ongoing training Good written and verbal communication skills Ability to relate effectively to children, families, and coworkers from diverse backgrounds Availability to work year-round, including support of summer programming Must be at least 18 years of age
We were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association in 1886, but today, we are The Y. Part of a world-class organization, we are one of the area’s leading nonprofits, that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. The Summit Area YMCA is 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.
Market context
Classroom teacher roles in New Jersey are typically in steady demand, especially in core subjects like English. Competition can be strong because districts often look for candidates with the correct New Jersey certification, a bachelor’s degree, and classroom readiness; the posted benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability coverage. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then tailor your application to show your certification status and relevant English instruction experience.