Preschool Teacher - Northwest Early Childhood Education Center

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the individual to perform a broad range of activities and duties needing full range of motion, including manual and finger dexterity and hand and eye coordination. The position requires the ability to lift 30 pounds, bend, stand and walk for extended periods of time. It also requires the ability to drive and occasionally requires working under stressful conditions and irregular hours.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

PRINCIPAL DUTIES

• Communicate and promote the YMCA mission, goals and objectives to employees, volunteers and the community at large.
• Promote a safe and positive atmosphere during scheduled working hours.
• Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
• Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
• Complete required abuse risk management training.
• Adhere to policies related to boundaries with children.
• Implement designated curriculum for age appropriate group in accordance with the policies and philosophy of the Heart of the Valley YMCA as well as DHR.
• Demonstrate cultural competency and respect for the child’s background by incorporating cultural, linguistic and familial values and beliefs into the program and lesson plans.
• Responsible for ensuring diverse program experience for children each day.
• Understand difference between discipline and punishment. Use positive verbal and non-verbal communication with children to build trusting and stable relationships.
• Ensure all children’s individual needs are met with dignity and respect.
• Assure that children’s equipment and supplies are arranged properly, orderly and kept in good condition.
• Assist children as they develop appropriate habits of eating, dressing, napping and toileting.
• Responsible for appearance, decoration and learning environment of the classrooms in accordance with policies of the YMCA and DHR.
• Responsible for keeping the program clean and sanitary to insure health and safety of all children.
• Keep a neat and clean appearance, in accordance with the standards set by the YMCA.
• Attend all staff meetings and in-service provided at the Center.
• Assist in development, training and ongoing educational requirements through orientation, training and continued education opportunities.
• Display the highest ethical and professional behavior and standards when working with the children, parents, child development personnel, and agencies associated with the YMCA Association.
• Model, practice and carry out the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
• Responsible for any other duties as assigned by the Child Development Center Director.

EXPERIENCE/PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• Willingness to carry out the mission of the YMCA and its programs.
• Ability to understand the concepts of mutual respect, caring, honesty, and responsibility in positive communications and interaction with children, parents and staff.
• Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to interpret, as well as, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and utilize initiative, ability to be organized and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Work to continue personal competency through education, outside literature, seminars, etc.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/CERTIFICATIONS

• Be at least 19 years of age or older.
• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement program activities.
• Excellent skills in teaching, communication, and human relations.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Able to work as a team leader and builder/member.
• Has an educator presence in all situations.
• Able to work with diverse populations.
• Professional appearance and behavior.
• Able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Able to research, analyze and solve problems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Positive attitude.
• Adhere to drug free/tobacco free workplace policy.
• Desire to work in a YMCA setting in accordance with the YMCA mission.
• Has strong communication and organizational skills.
• Must pass a medical examination including TB Risk Assessment.
• Must pass criminal records check and pre-employment drug screen.