JOB SUMMARY
The JSYEC Pre-K Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and delivering high-quality, developmentally appropriate instruction to children ages 4–5 in the BGCGM’S Pre-K program at the JSYEC. Reporting directly to the Pre-K Director, the Lead Teacher takes ownership of the daily classroom experience, designing engaging lessons, building nurturing relationships with children and families, and guiding the work of classroom aides and assistant teachers. This role is central to the academic and social-emotional development of every child in the classroom and serves as a model of best practice in early childhood education for the broader program team.
This is a year-round position. Work hours vary in response to program schedules and operational needs, including school-year programming, summer programming, and school breaks. Flexibility is required to maintain consistent, high-quality instruction across all program periods.
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Plan, prepare, and deliver developmentally appropriate daily lessons and activities aligned with state early learning standards and the program's adopted curriculum.
- Create and maintain a structured, nurturing, and print-rich classroom environment that supports children's cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language development.
- Build warm, responsive relationships with each child that promote trust, belonging, and a love of learning.
- Observe, document, and assess each child's developmental progress using approved tools and maintain accurate records of individual growth.
- Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding their child's development, daily experiences, and any areas of concern.
- Directly supervise and provide instructional guidance to classroom aides and assistant teachers assigned to the classroom.
- Model positive behavior guidance strategies and implement the program's behavior management framework consistently.
- Collaborate with the Pre-K Director to ensure classroom practices align with program goals, licensing requirements, and organizational standards.
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and training as required.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment in compliance with licensing and health regulations.
- Support transitions, routines, and daily schedules that promote predictability and independence for young learners.
- Assist in identifying children who may need additional support and communicate observations to the Pre-K Director.
- Help coordinate family engagement activities, events, and parent communication initiatives.
- Maintain accurate classroom records including attendance, incident reports, developmental documentation, and lesson plans.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Pre-K Director.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be at least 18 years of age or older
- Ability to pass criminal background screening and obtain required fingerprinting
- Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field required (Bachelor's degree strongly preferred)
- Minimum 2 years of lead teaching or head teacher experience in a Pre-K, preschool, or early childhood setting
- Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and early childhood curriculum frameworks
- Experience with child observation and developmental assessment tools
- Strong ability to build positive, professional relationships with young children, families, and colleagues
- Experience supervising or mentoring classroom aides or assistant teachers
- Ability to implement positive behavior guidance strategies effectively and consistently
- Maintain personal auto insurance policy with a minimum of liability coverage.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Current CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain upon hire
- Regular attendance required
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Actively engage with and supervise young children in classroom, outdoor, and activity settings throughout the day
- Stand, walk, kneel, and sit on the floor for extended periods of time.
- Get down to and up from floor level regularly to interact with children at their level
- Respond quickly and appropriately in emergencies to ensure child health and safety
- Maintain energy, patience, and attentiveness throughout extended shifts in a high-energy environment
- Work in various settings including classrooms, playgrounds, and outdoor spaces
- Lift and carry children, supplies, or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
- Perform physical tasks such as bending, kneeling, reaching, and climbing stairs
- Use general office and classroom equipment including computers, printers, and educational technology
BENEFITS
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Our benefits include:
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance – Comprehensive coverage for you and your family.
401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match – Invest in your future with company-matched contributions.
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) – Take the time you need to recharge and enjoy life outside of work.
Paid Holidays – Enjoy company-observed holidays throughout the year.
Child Care Benefit – The Club offers discounts for staff who would like to enroll their children in BGCGM programming.
Wellness and Work-Life Support – Additional resources to help you stay healthy and balanced.
