YMCA Buffalo Niagara·Kenmore, New York
The UPK Teacher is responsible for developing and implementing curriculum and lesson plans while ensuring academic growth for students. They also perform administrative tasks, maintain classroom cleanliness, and foster positive relationships with students, parents, and school administration.
YMCA Buffalo Niagara is looking for talented individuals with a passion for the YMCA mission and cause, an understanding of YMCA programs and services, and whose everyday priorities are a reflection of the core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to practicing inclusion.
The YMCA operates Universal Pre-K (UPK) at Hamilton Elementary in the Ken-Ton school district. The UPK Teacher develops and implements the curriculum and lesson plans. GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE: Teachers are scheduled to work Monday – Friday, up to 40 hours per week.
Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund 403B plan and will receive a 12% employer paid Y Retirement Fund contribution after eligibility requirements are met. Health insurance is available on the first of the month following 60 days of employment with the Y. There is a generous paid time off program, which includes three weeks of personal time off (PTO) based on the school schedule and paid sick leave. All employees receive a complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara family masterkey membership and program discounts. Other benefits include training and leadership development opportunities, and career advancement. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Develops and implements the curriculum and follows program standards established by the YMCA, New York State Department of Education, and the School District. Conducts assessments and ensures academic growth for students. Performs administrative tasks related to the program. Analyzes survey data. Develops and implements action plans to improve program quality. Develops and maintains positive relationships with students, parents, staff, and school administration. Follows department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Maintains the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas. Ensures PPE compliance. Provides a safe environment for all activities. Enforces safety rules and report/treat any injuries. Attends staff meetings and trainings as required. Carries out other duties as assigned.
Meets the requirements outlined in the contract with the School District and/or the local Board of Education. Bachelor’s Degree in Education. New York State Teacher Certification is required. Two years of experience working with children and a background in education is preferred. Excellent communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships. CPR/AED and First Aid certifications are preferred and may be required based on location.
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's Degree in Education and possess a New York State Teacher Certification. Two years of experience working with children is preferred, along with CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.
Market context
Universal Pre-K roles in New York are typically in steady demand because districts and early childhood programs need teachers who can meet state licensing and classroom-readiness requirements. Competition often centers on candidates with NYS Teaching Certification (Birth-2), early childhood coursework, and the ability to pass registry and fingerprint clearance; this platform’s AI-summarized job requirements and benefits help you review those details faster from the original posting. Before applying, confirm your credential path and clearance status, and be ready to address the physical demands listed in the job description.