YMCA of Greater Dayton·Fairborn, Ohio
The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing educational activities to support the social, physical, and mental development of preschool children. They must ensure child safety, maintain classroom standards, and communicate progress to parents and supervisors.
Lead Teacher (Preschool) Fairborn, OH Part-Time/Non-Exempt $14.00-$18.10/Hour
Lead Teacher (Preschool) for Childcare in Fairborn, OH, is responsible for the planning, development and implementation of all classrooms activities. The Lead Teacher is responsible for ensuring the children’s social, physical, spiritual and mental development in the program, as well as keeping safety and the well being of the children as a first priority. At the YMCA, Childcare in Fairborn, OH, We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our Fairborn Community stronger beginning with you. Essential Functions: Plans, develops and implements weekly lesson plans that fit the children’s needs, interests and developmental levels in the classroom. Works cooperatively with Assistant Teacher, Site Administrator, other staff, and partners. Documents attendance, absenteeism, transitions, minor disciplines, and incidents for each child in the classroom. Is responsible for all aspects of the appearance and management of their classroom/designated program/outside areas. Maintains the quality of supplies, materials, and equipment in the room in a neat and orderly fashion. Reports any broken or unsafe toys and properly disinfects toys and equipment on a regular basis in accordance with the state regulations. Conducts the program in accordance with Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) guidelines. Effectively communicates verbal and written reports to the parents and conducts parent/teacher conferences in accordance with Center guidelines. Possesses working knowledge of child abuse and neglect laws and follows proper reporting procedures. Handles discipline promptly and in accordance with the stated discipline policy. Documents and reports to the supervisor any special needs or problems of an individual child, staff or parent. Monitors and assists in maintaining the cleanliness of the childcare and program area. Maintains appropriate adult/child ratio. Fills in other classrooms when needed. Attends parent events/family programs. Attends scheduled staff meetings, staff activities and ongoing trainings. Attends in-service training events as required by Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) regulations, continued professional development through community involvement, reading and/or further education. Remains familiar with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), or the National After School Assocation (NAA) accreditation requirements, and completes required documentation in accordance with Center requirements. Conducts all required screenings and assessments within required timeframe. Maintains appropriate records for Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) program. Communicates to direct supervisor any concerns, needed repairs, or incidents that may need follow-up. Communicates any suggestions to improve the childcare program and facilities. Possesses the ability and appropriate safe driving record to drive a vehicle, safely transporting up to 14 children, and to travel between locations for work-related purposes as needed. Required to work summer months/Day Camp. Protects confidential information regarding program participants, families and staff members.
Must be at least 18 years of age and possess high school diploma or GED. Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from an accredited college or university required. Must be able to obtain a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or equivalent as determined by the YMCA Childcare Branch. CPR/AED, First Aid, and Oxygen required within first 60 days of employment and kept current. Two years’ experience working in early childhood field strongly preferred. A valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and completion of YMCA Driver Orientation are required only for employees who will perform driving responsibilities as part of their role. Candidates without a valid license may still be hired but will not be eligible to drive YMCA vehicles until requirements are met. Optional based on specific assignments.
Candidates must have a high school diploma and an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, with a CDA credential or equivalent. CPR/AED and First Aid certifications are required, and two years of experience in the early childhood field is strongly preferred.
Market context
In Ohio, preschool lead teacher roles are commonly driven by ongoing demand for experienced early childhood staff who can support classroom routines and child development. This role is competitive because employers often prefer a current CDA, value an associate degree or higher in ECE, and need candidates who can meet physical requirements and pass background and medical screenings. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your CDA, preschool experience, and readiness to lift 40 lbs before applying.