Assistant Preschool Teacher at YWCA Greater Cleveland

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionAssistant Preschool TeacherDo you believe that every child deserves a strong start, no matter their zip code? Are you ready to be a steady, nurturing presence for preschoolers navigating big emotions and big milestones?Join us at YWCA Greater Cleveland as an Assistant Teacher and help prepare young children for kindergarten success—especially those facing socio-economic and developmental challenges. You’ll work side-by-side with a lead teacher to create a safe, joyful, and structured classroom where every child can learn and thrive.What You’ll DoAs an Assistant Teacher, you’ll play a hands-on role in the classroom, helping to:Support the daily routine and implement creative, developmentally appropriate lesson plansBuild warm relationships with children while modeling positive behavior and emotional regulationHelp children meet key milestones for language, literacy, motor skills, and social-emotional developmentAssist with classroom setup, cleanliness, safety, and behavior managementKeep up with documentation such as attendance, meal counts, and developmental observationsPartner with families by communicating progress and celebrating growthYou’ll also help track supplies, write newsletter content, substitute for the Lead Teacher as needed, and participate in ongoing training and development.You’ll Thrive Here If You:Love working with preschool-age children, especially those facing adversityStay calm and caring in moments of chaos, using structure and patience to support young learnersBelieve in equitable early education and understand the long-term impact of kindergarten readinessCan follow and implement lesson plans, learning standards, and routines with consistencyAre a team player and flexible enough to jump in wherever neededWhat You’ll NeedMinimum Requirements:CDA (Child Development Associate credential) or currently enrolled in a CDA program (must complete within 1 year)Two years of full-time experience with children ages 0–5Ability to lift 50 lbs and engage physically with children (kneel, squat, reach, etc.)Valid First Aid/CPR, Communicable Disease, and Child Abuse training (or ability to obtain)Familiarity with ODJFS licensing standardsPreferred:Associate’s Degree or 12+ credit hours in Early Childhood Education3+ years of early childhood experience, including behavioral support strategiesReady to make a difference in a child’s life before they even enter kindergarten? Apply now to join a team of passionate educators helping Cleveland’s youngest learners reach their potential.YWCA Greater Cleveland is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply, especially those from communities we serve.