UPK Lead Teacher; Albany

Position: UPK Lead Teacher (Albany)
Location: City of Albany

UPK Lead Teacher (Albany)

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area

Location:

Varies – Albany City School District

Reports to:

UPK Director

Salary:
Starting from $18.75/hour

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week

Classification:
Full‑Time Non‑Exempt

Benefits:
Paid school holidays and breaks, sick leave, 401(k) with match, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long‑term disability, NY Paid Family Leave benefits, retirement benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third‑party discounts.

Note:

This is a 10‑month position (August 2025 – June 2026) in collaboration with the City School District of Albany (CSDA).

Overview of Your Role

The primary function of the UPK Lead Teacher is to plan, develop, and instruct students aged 3‑4 years old in accordance with the CSDA curriculum. You will create a supportive, engaging classroom environment that fosters academic and social‑emotional achievement, working with a classroom of 18 students, one teacher, and one teaching assistant.

Key Job Responsibilities Leadership & Supervision

• Collaborate with the Teaching Assistant to implement planned lessons, ensuring a safe and positive classroom environment.
• Provide clear guidance and direction regarding daily tasks and responsibilities.
• Conduct regular evaluations of the Teaching Assistant’s performance and provide constructive feedback.
• Offer mentorship and coaching to support professional growth.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team dynamic.

Planning

• Develop comprehensive, engaging weekly lesson plans aligned with the approved curriculum and individualized student needs.
• Incorporate diverse teaching methods and materials to accommodate different learning styles.
• Design age‑appropriate activities promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Collaborate with the Teaching Assistant to prepare and organize required materials.
• Utilize curriculum resources such as Learning Without Tears and 2nd Step.
• Adapt lesson plans based on ongoing assessment of student progress.

Education Delivery

• Implement innovative, hands‑on classroom activities aligned with predetermined units.
• Create a stimulating learning environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem‑solving.
• Differentiate instruction for the diverse needs of all students, including those with special needs or advanced abilities.
• Facilitate both small‑group and whole‑class learning experiences.
• Integrate technology appropriately to enhance learning.
• Provide opportunities for student‑led activities and exploration.

Assessment and Reporting

• Conduct ongoing assessments of student progress using observations, portfolios, developmental checklists, etc.
• Provide timely, accurate progress reports, attendance records, and other documentation.
• Complete progress monitoring reports, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about progress, concerns, and achievements.
• Participate in parent‑teacher conferences and family engagement activities.
• Use assessment data to inform instruction and individualize learning.

Health & Safety

• Adhere to and enforce all health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
• Implement proper sanitation and disinfection procedures.
• Monitor student health and wellness, promptly reporting concerns to parents/guardians and administrators.
• Maintain a safe, secure classroom environment, addressing potential hazards promptly.

Requirements Credentials, Skills & Knowledge Required

Education and Experience

• Required – Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum one (1) year of professional experience working with youth aged 3‑5 years.
• Group leadership skills and understanding of group dynamics.
• Knowledge of principles related to youth development ages 3‑5.

Required Certifications

• Valid NYS Teaching Certificate in Early Childhood Education B‑2nd, Masters equivalents such as Literacy B‑2nd or Curriculum Development, or current enrollment in a certification program.
• Mandated Reporter Certification.
• CPR and First Aid Training.

Essential Job Functions –

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent verbal and…