Crossroads YMCA·Crown Point, Indiana
The Teacher Lead implements program curriculum and provides direction for the classroom to drive student growth through individualized progress plans. They are responsible for supervising children and assistants while maintaining positive relationships with parents and the community.
As a Teacher Lead, this position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Teacher Lead provides direction for the classroom and implements program curriculum while driving the development and growth of students through individualized student progress plans. The Teacher Lead provides a quality experience to children and parents that focuses on the YMCA values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. This position is limited to the duration of the Preschool Program school session and subject to change based on local school trends. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Implements curriculum within the established guidelines. Facilitate programming and curriculum within health and safety guidelines. Nurtures children through purposeful programming dedicated to providing opportunities for achievement and belonging while developing relationships among youth and within families. Supervises the children, classroom, and all activities including ADA accommodations by leading the Teacher Assistant(s). Makes ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child. Cultivates positive relationships, conducts parent conferences, and maintains effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA. Maintains program site and equipment in a responsible and efficient way. Maintains required program records including attendance and disciplinary actions. Lead all classroom activities, behavioral management and give work instructions. Ensure students can attend classes in flexible settings and environments. Possess a passion for teaching early learning and working with youth. Assist with special events for the students. Play a role in securing gifts for the annual campaign. Performs other duties as assigned.
CDA Credential or associate degree in Early Childhood Education is required. Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education with a Kindergarten Endorsement is preferred. Minimum of 2 years of experience is preferred. Must have 12 continuing education units annually. Required training completed within designated time of start: Keeping your YMCA Safe, Daxko 100, Listen First, Bullying Management, Meet Sam, Behavior Management and 13 Baseline Trainings. Certifications required within 30 days of hire: CPR/AED & First Aid and New Employee Orientation. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to relate and communicate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community. Adept computer skills with Office 360 and Google Applications. YMCA COMPETENCIES (Team Leader): The National YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Mission Advancement: Models and teaches the Ys values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition. Cultivates relationships to support fund-raising.
A CDA credential or associate degree in Early Childhood Education is required, with a bachelor's degree preferred. Candidates should have at least 2 years of experience and must obtain CPR/AED and First Aid certifications within 30 days of hire.
Market context
Indiana classroom teacher roles are often in steady demand, especially in districts filling core subject, special education, and elementary openings. Competition can be strong because employers look for state licensure, a bachelor’s degree with relevant coursework, teaching or tutoring experience, and a clear commitment to student success. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page to save research time, then tailor your application to show licensure status, classroom experience, and examples of student support.