Lead Educator

Lead Educator – YWCA NETN and SWVA

Summary

The Lead Educator is responsible for the physical, mental, emotional and social well‑being and the supervision of the assigned group of children.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

Child Development and Supervision

• Plan, supervise, and implement the Childcare program in accordance with policies and the center philosophy.
• Treat each child with dignity and respect.
• Help children become aware of their roles as integral members of a group.
• Physically supervise all activities, maintaining standards and processes inside and outside the center.
• Provide consistent care of children’s needs, including feeding, diapering, toilet training, comforting, guidance, napping, playing, learning/lessons, medical care, etc.
• Adapt program to each child's needs, considering cultural and socioeconomic background.
• Develop multi‑age, developmentally appropriate activities covering dramatic play, block/manipulative, gross/fine motor skills, arts/crafts, music/movement, language, math/science, indoor/outdoor activities.
• Communicate daily with parents regarding the child’s day/activities.
• Evaluate child performance and complete Developmental Checklist biannually.
• Identify behavioral problems and determine appropriate action.
• Submit monthly/weekly lesson plans with TN ELDS documentation at least one week in advance.
• Coordinate activities/child assignments for volunteers.

Classroom and Program Management

• Arrange, maintain appearance, decor, and learning environment of the classroom.
• Ensure classroom meets Three Star criteria at all times.
• Maintain accurate documentation of attendance, meals, accidents, medications, activity sheets.
• Ensure cleanliness and report maintenance issues.
• Share housekeeping responsibilities indoors and outdoors.
• Ensure classroom is stocked with necessary forms and supplies each day.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in training, conferences, CPR, First Aid, etc. Minimum 18 hrs/year.
• Implement effective use of Educational Assistants.
• Represent YWCA hospitably to guests and external contacts.
• Maintain positive, flexible, cooperative relationships with staff and volunteers.
• Assist Directors in supervising staff/volunteers and coordinating activities.
• Adhere to State of Tennessee Licensure Rules and report noncompliance.
• Perform other duties assigned by Directors.

General Requirements

• Work in a safety‑conscious manner, reporting hazards.
• Comply with YWCA policies, local, state, federal regulations, and drug‑free workplace policy.
• Interact tactfully with children, families, volunteers, and co‑workers, respecting dignity and rights.
• Maintain dependable attendance and professional grooming, hygiene, dress code.
• Promote equal opportunity in all business activities.

Physical Demands

• Walk, stand, talk, hear; respond immediately to child’s needs.
• Lift children, move furniture, sustain active work for 8+ hours.
• Lift up to 40 lbs.
• Move quickly and keep pace with toddlers.

Mental Demands

• Communicate effectively (verbal & written).
• Maintain emotional control under stress.
• Remain alert and energetic for 8+ hours.

Travel

• Minimal; occasional travel between facilities and trainings.

Benefits

• Full‑time staff: discounted childcare, PTO, retirement fund, medical, dental, vision.
• Full‑time and part‑time: discounts at Bristol Bridal, vacation based on hours worked, discounted room rentals with one free rental per year.

References may increase interview chances.

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