UPK Teacher Assistant Pre-K

About the Role

We are an all-inclusively organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission-focused, future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven candidate to join our team. We are currently seeking a dedicated Pre-K Teacher Assistant to support the implementation of classroom curriculum and activities under the guidance of the Child Care Director and Lead Teacher, and to assume leadership in the Lead Teacher's absence.

Note that this position begins in September of 2026 and ends in June of 2026.

• Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining the organization, appearance and décor of the assigned classroom (bulletin boards, displays, storage areas, general classroom cleanliness, etc.).
• Assist Lead Teacher in implementing an age-appropriate curriculum.
• Work with different age groups and classes upon request as needed.
• Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining a healthy and safe classroom environment for children.
• Participate in Parent Advisory Committee and YMCA sponsored special events.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings and workshops to enhance professional growth.
• Provide consistent interaction, encouragement and nurturance for all children.
• Assist in YMCA fundraising activities and special events.
• Model relationship-building skills in all interactions and respond to all parent inquiries in a timely manner.
• Attend trainings and meetings in absence of Lead Teacher, and at other times as requested and appropriate.
• Actively participate in Summer Camp programs.
• Demonstrate and model the YMCA's four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
• Exhibit personal and professional behavior consistent with the best interests of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association.
• Perform other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned.

• CDA or 60 college credits/degree in Education preferred.
• Experience in assisting with curriculum implementation and being a contributing team member is essential.
• Maintain training requirements as required by the Office of Licensing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, parents and youth.
• Ability to problem-solve and take initiative that adheres to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to work as part of a team, serve as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• First-Aid, CPR and AED certification within 30 days of hire date.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off (PTO), paid sick leave, paid holidays, a legal plan, long-term disability, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403(b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.

Full-time employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

$31, annually