Teacher

Position Summary

As a Teacher at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, you will create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children ages 1 through 5 years. Through developmentally appropriate practices, relationship-based teaching, and play-based learning, you will support each child's cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development. Working collaboratively with families and fellow teachers, you will foster school readiness, encourage a lifelong love of learning, and ensure a high-quality early learning experience while upholding the YMCA's mission and core values. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Curriculum Preparation and Implementation: Prepare and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum plans that promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Create engaging and inclusive learning experiences that incorporate play-based and hands-on activities. Adapt curriculum to meet the individual needs and interests of children in the classroom. Classroom Management: Establish and maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming classroom environment conducive to learning and exploration. Manage classroom routines and transitions effectively, promoting independence and self-regulation among children. Foster a positive classroom culture based on the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Child Assessment and Progress Monitoring: Conduct ongoing assessment of children’s development and learning through observation, documentation, and informal assessments. Maintain accurate records of children’s progress and communicate with parents/guardians regarding their child’s development. Collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to identify areas for growth and support individualized learning goals. Parent and Community Engagement: Establish positive and collaborative relationships with parents/guardians, providing regular communication and opportunities for involvement in the classroom and program. Participate in parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and events to support family engagement and education. Engage with the broader community to enhance the preschool program’s resources and opportunities for children and families. Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the job, staying informed about best practices, research, and trends in early learning. Pursue opportunities for further education in early learning. LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: Functional Expertise Program and Project Management Developing Self & Others

Requirements

The Teacher will meet the qualifications set forth by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care Health and Safety. Minimum qualifications include: Be at least 18 years of age Have a high school diploma or the equivalent Meet the minimum qualifications for “Lead Teacher” as defined by the VA Department of Education Division of Child Care Health and Safety Staff shall be in good character and reputation CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children required Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts required Ability to work at various program locations preferred Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking Will be exposed to cleaning supplies Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications During peak program seasons, may be expected to work night and weekend hours to meet program needs BACKGROUND CHECKS: An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). Additional driver’s license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the requirements of this position.