Great Start Readiness Program Associate Teacher

The YMCA seeks a Great Start Readiness Program Associate Teacher to support high-quality preschool learning in a caring, inclusive environment. In partnership with the lead teacher, you'll help deliver play-based curriculum, guide social-emotional growth, and maintain a safe, engaging classroom. You'll communicate with families, uphold licensing and YMCA standards, and model our core values. This role is ideal for emerging early childhood professionals looking to grow in a mission-driven, community-focused nonprofit setting.

Responsibilities

• Support lead teacher in implementing Great Start Readiness Program curriculum aligned with early childhood standards
• Assist in planning and leading age-appropriate learning activities that foster social, emotional, and cognitive development
• Maintain a safe, clean, and nurturing classroom environment in line with YMCA and state licensing requirements
• Observe, document, and report children's progress and behaviors to the lead teacher and program supervisors
• Build positive, respectful relationships with children, families, and colleagues that reflect YMCA values of inclusion and diversity
• Support behavior guidance using positive strategies that encourage independence and cooperation
• Communicate regularly with families, sharing daily updates and supporting family engagement in the program
• Assist with classroom setup, materials preparation, and organization of learning centers
• Follow all health, safety, and confidentiality policies, including supervision and mandated reporting requirements
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and professional development to enhance early childhood education skills

Required Skills

• Early childhood curriculum implementation
• Classroom management
• Child observation and documentation
• Family communication
• Child safety and supervision
• Behavior guidance
• Lesson and activity planning
• Knowledge of early childhood development
• Record keeping and compliance
• Collaboration in team teaching