Master Teacher

Inspire Little Minds, Lead Big Futures - Join the Y as a Master Teacher!

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is hiring a full-time Master Teacher for our early learning programs. The Master Teacher provides effective instructional strategies, classroom management, assessment, evaluation, and related research for children ages 3-5, in a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom climate.

The Master Teacher provides effective instructional strategies, classroom management, assessment, evaluation, and related research for children ages 3-5, in a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom climate.

Salary range is $60,361.60–$69,139.20 per year depending on qualifications and certifications

To be considered for a position in our early learning program, applicants must submit the following with their application:

• Official transcripts from accredited institutions verifying educational qualifications relevant to early childhood education.
• Valid credentials or certifications
  , such as Early Childhood Education (ECE) certification, Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or state‑specific teaching licenses.

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work‑life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs
  , employee assistance programs, and company‑sponsored events.

• Demonstrate and promote high‑quality teaching and learning in the classroom that fosters academic readiness.
• Build a safe, orderly, and inclusive classroom environment in which children are encouraged to participate as individuals as well as members of the classroom community.
• Exhibit enthusiasm and interpersonal skills to relate well with children, parents, co‑workers, administrators, and the community.
• Introduce and follow a consistent daily schedule which includes a balance of teacher and child‑directed activities, choice time, small and large group, content physical and outdoor activities, effective transitions, meals, and rest period.
• Emphasize aspects of math, literacy, and cultural diversity in all aspects of the program.
• Demonstrate competency and respect for families’ social‑cultural background by incorporating the cultural, linguistic family values and beliefs into the classroom and lesson plans.
• Incorporate rigorous academic instruction for English Language Learners (ELLs) that will support children’s academic, intellectual, and linguistic development.
• Promote and reinforce family engagement in all aspects of the program and awareness through a variety of methods and ensure parents receive adequate information about their child’s experiences through regular contacts, and scheduled home visits and parent/teacher conferences.
• Utilize fidelity measures to support the implementation of English Language Learner programs, and to inform linguistic and culturally responsive practices.
• Develop a professional rapport and work cooperatively with adults assigned to the classroom, establishing clear expectations for roles and responsibilities; and to share and exchange information/ideas.
• Participate and support agency/center efforts toward recruitment, enrollment, attendance, and retention of eligible families.
• Provides functional training and guidance to staff, interns, substitutes, and volunteers assigned to the classroom.
• Maintain regular job attendance, professionalism in attire and demeanor, observe and respect issues of confidentiality, ethics, and best practices.
• Accept and perform other duties or responsibilities…