Preschool Teacher at Berkshire Family YMCA

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionAbout Company:MISSIONBerkshire Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) cause-driven nonprofit organization whose mission is to put Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility into programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.VISIONThe Y’s Commitment to America is developing new generations of changemakers who will create communities we all want to live in. We envision communities where all people achieve health, gain confidence, make connections and feel secure at every stage of life.PURPOSEThe Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow, and thrive.VALUESCARING: Show a sincere concern for othersHONESTY: Be truthful in what you say and doRESPECT: Treat each other as we’d all like to be treatedRESPONSIBILITY: Be accountable for your promises and actionsPERSONALITYWELCOMING: We’re open to all and create spaces where you can be, belong and becomeGENUINE: We value who you are and encourage you to be true to yourself and othersNURTURING: We’re with you on your path to reach your full potentialHOPEFUL: We believe in your ability to inspire a brighter tomorrowDETERMINED: We work relentlessly to strengthen communities, starting with youAREAS OF IMPACTFOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: Empowering young people to reach their full potentialFOR HEALTHY LIVING: Improving individual and community well-beingFOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Providing support and inspiring action in our communitiesAbout the Role:The Preschool Teacher plays a crucial role in the early development of children, fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes learning and growth. This position is responsible for creating and implementing age-appropriate lesson plans that engage young minds and encourage exploration. The teacher will assess each child's progress and adapt teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. Building strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues is essential to create a collaborative community focused on the well-being of the children. Ultimately, the Preschool Teacher aims to lay a solid foundation for lifelong learning and social skills in a safe and inclusive setting.Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.State certification or licensure in early childhood education.Preferred Qualifications:Experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom setting.Knowledge of child development principles and early childhood education best practices.Responsibilities:Develop and implement engaging lesson plans that align with early childhood education standards.Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration and learning.Assess and document children's progress, providing feedback to parents and adapting teaching strategies as needed.Foster positive relationships with children, parents, and staff to promote a collaborative learning community.Maintain a clean and organized classroom, ensuring that materials and resources are readily available for children.Skills:The required skills for this position include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, which are essential for building relationships with children and their families. Organizational skills are vital for planning lessons and managing classroom activities effectively. Creativity is necessary to develop engaging and interactive learning experiences that capture children's interest. Patience and adaptability are crucial in addressing the diverse needs of young learners and responding to their unique challenges. Preferred skills, such as knowledge of early childhood education practices, enhance the teacher's ability to implement effective teaching strategies and foster a positive learning environment.Full-time Employment BenefitsWork that makes a differenceFree YMCA membershipSubsidized childcare and program feesFlexible hours, paid time off and holidaysOpportunities for training and advancementHealth and dental insuranceFunded retirement plan