Saratoga Universal-Pre K Teacher

Position Summary

The Lead UPK Teacher will plan and implement daily program activities and curriculum for the assigned classroom. Maintains program quality in accordance with NYS Universal Pre-K (UPK) Curriculum and YMCA program policies. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals and promotes safety in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.

Essential Functions

• Develops, plans and implements quality curriculum and student assessments for classrooms and ensures age-appropriate lessons in accordance with Creative Curriculum and YMCA philosophies.
• Ensure all YMCA and/or UPK guidelines are followed for proper verbal interaction, learn and play techniques, and age-appropriate redirection as a form of discipline.
• Ensures active participation in planning and implementing activities; and delegate responsibilities to TA as needed.
• Develops behavioral management plans as necessary. Ensures classroom staff maintain sensitivity and patience with the children and parents and provide care to meet the individual needs of the child/families. Ensure that confidentiality is maintained at all times, and staff are using appropriate verbal interactions with parents.
• Maintains accurate and timely records of attendance, progress and behavioral reports, and all other program reports by required dates.
• Informs families of weekly/monthly activities. Displays students’ work throughout classroom.
• Mentors and leads Teacher Assistants.
• Supports Director with administrative duties, as assigned.
• Enforces and leads all YMCA and/or UPK policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures and completes related reports as required.
• Builds effective, authentic relationships with families/parents; helps them connect with each other and the Y.
• Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA and our three areas of focus: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
• Communicates with families regularly through Brightwheel
• Ability to articulate and model the Y’s four core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
• Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.
• Wear required and appropriate attire at all times.
• Supports other childcare programs when able to ensure ratio compliance across programs.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 2+ years of teaching experience – leading a classroom, planning and executing curriculum according to NYS Early Childhood standards
• Bachelor's degree with Birth – Grade 2 Certification or comparable work experience with a plan to obtain certification