Crossroads YMCA·Crown Point, Indiana
The Teacher Assistant supports the Teacher Lead in planning activities, nurturing children, and maintaining a safe, educational classroom environment. They are responsible for supervising children, managing classroom records, and fostering positive relationships with students and their families.
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 Assistant I supports the Teacher Lead by planning activities and caring for the children in the classroom. As a Teacher Assistant I you provide 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: Supports the implementation of curriculum within the established guidelines as outlined by the Teacher Lead, including preparing educational pieces for student work. Nurtures children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth while building relationships among youth and within families. Supervises the children, classroom, and all activities including ADA accommodations where appropriate. Follows all procedures and standards, supporting behavior management within the program. Supports the ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child. Cultivates positive relationships, participates in parent conferences as needed, and maintains effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA as outlined by the Teacher Lead. Maintains program site and equipment in an effective and responsible way. Maintains required program records including attendance and disciplinary documentation. Attends and participates in family nights, events, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training as required. Supports Teacher Lead to ensure students can take classes remote and ensure class materials are accessible to the learners and meet program goals and objectives. Supports an environment of teamwork with other department staff. Play a role in securing gifts for the annual campaign. Performs other duties as assigned.
High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Minimum of 1 year experience in childcare is preferred. Must have 12 continuing education units annually. Required training completed within designated time of start: Keeping your YMCA Safe. 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. YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader): The National YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and have a minimum of one year of experience in childcare. Additionally, they must obtain CPR/AED and First Aid certifications within 30 days of hire and complete 12 continuing education units annually.
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.