MISSION:
The mission of the YMCA of the Foothills is to organize, develop, finance, and conduct programs for an association of persons of all ages that will, by putting Christian principles into practice, enrich the quality of their lives spiritually, mentally, physically, and socially.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Lead and guide a class in meaningful, lessons and activities that allow for personal growth and provide for the best possible experience. This position is focused on nurturing the potential of students using a variety of tools including the Y voice and core values. Implement activities that align with the Developmental Assets.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
-
Under the direction of the Preschool Director, teachers will coordinate and implement both structured and unstructured programming to engage the preschool students and provide opportunities for preschoolers to succeed, develop leadership skills, and foster healthy growth.
-
Work with Youth Development leadership and project teams (Youth Development, Healthy Living, & Social Responsibility) to create a more welcoming environment to provide a fun, safe, and productive environment for youth and teens in Y facilities.
-
Provide opportunities for students to develop & strengthen academic, physical, and social skills.
-
Create leadership development opportunities for youth to help them find focus and to build a “blueprint” for life and to discover and cultivate their SPARK.
- Connect youth with caring adults, consciously engage non-engaged program participants and be impactful leaders to our youth.
-
Works as a member of a team to design and implement impactful activities that engage youth in building Developmental Assets.
-
Provide clear leadership to students by consistently supervising activities, confidently identifying boundaries, communicating rules, and educating and supporting youth on acceptable behavior.
-
Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled and required. Support Leaders/Directors in implementation of meetings and trainings.
-
Adheres to YMCA program standards regarding safety and risk management.
-
Act as representative of the YMCA of the Foothills always. Conveys information on programs and schedules and refers members to other programs as appropriate. Articulate the mission, cause, and rally cry of the YMCA of the Foothills.
-
Supports other Y staff and volunteers by building strong relationships using Y tools, such as Listen First, in all interactions.
-
Conveys information on the YMCA of the Foothills' charitable initiatives.
-
Builds strong relationships and rapport with members and helps them connect with each other and the YMCA. Encourages member involvement and identifies potential volunteers.
-
Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, emergencies, dress guidelines and cleanliness standards.
-
Other duties as assigned.
YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):
Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum three (3) years of experience working or participating in a youth group/program setting. YMCA program participation preferred.
-
HS Diploma or GED Equivalent required. Associate degree in a related field or1-2 years of college completion in a related field preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
-
Proven ability to coordinate, implement, and/or lead enrichment/recreational activities.
-
Self-starter who is committed and possess good communication and teamwork skills.
-
Energetic, youth-friendly, and creative person with a high level of enthusiasm about providing meaningful opportunities and activities for youth.
-
Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
- Ability to communicate verbally to large and small groups of members.
-
Possess imagination, a sense of humor, patience, conviction, sincerity, enthusiasm, initiative, self-control, adaptability, willingness to learn, integrity and ingenuity.
-
Must possess the four essential characteristics for dealing with the growth of youth into adulthood: good health, intelligence, moral character, and personality.
-
Ability to follow and accept instruction and relate well with peers.
-
Familiarity working with schools and community-based agencies preferred.
-
Must be able to model the core values, Caring, Respect, Responsibility and Honesty.
- Must have commitment to the mission and cause of the YMCA and uphold its values and ethics.
-
Must have clearance through fingerprinting, drug testing, criminal records, and child abuse index check.
REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS:
-
CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire date unless otherwise stated below.
PRESCHOOL TEACHER
- Must have six (6) units in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) classes or completion of twelve (12) units ECE classes.
-
Must have 2 years teaching experience working with children in an organized setting.
- Ability to provide leadership and direction in a preschool setting while always adhering to the YMCA’s Policy and Procedures.
- Understands the developmental needs of preschool age children and possess a sincere interest and ability to work responsibly with children in a leadership capacity.
CERTIFICATIONS/TRAINING:
- CPR & FIRST AID Certifications required or within 90 days of hire.
-
Must have doctor’s clearance and current TB test.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.
