Preschool Head Teacher

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Under the direction of the Child Care Director, the Child Care Head Teacher is responsible for providing a warm, nurturing, safe and loving environment, where self‑concepts are enhanced, independence encouraged, and individuality respected. The Head Teacher provides the direct leadership and supervision to the assigned classroom, staff and children. They are also responsible for providing a program that fosters children’s social, physical, spiritual, and mental growth.

• Model and teach the YMCA values and child care philosophies with participants, colleagues, parents, visitors and any other constituents.
• Connect quickly with participants, develop and maintain personal relationships with children that inspire trust and confidence, and assist each child with meeting personal goals and those established by the program.
• Plan, organize and lead small and large group activities using a team approach in accordance with the goals and policies of the YMCA; ensure that curriculum is followed while allowing for spontaneity, creativity and flexibility.
• Act as a team member, active in all training events and staff meetings, cooperating with and connecting with colleagues.
• Actively participate in all daily activities.
• Positively and proactively communicate with and respond to supervisor, colleagues, children and parents.
• Directly supervise teachers, teacher assistants and volunteers assigned to the classroom; provide feedback, assist with performance reviews, and coach staff to prepare them for increased responsibilities.
• Execute day‑to‑day responsibilities to create a safe, secure and enjoyable environment, enforce all safety regulations, keep program areas clean and safe, and carry out disciplinary action as needed in accordance with the Discipline Policy.
• Anticipate and minimize potential problems with children or the environment and respond effectively in accordance with YMCA guidelines; enforce safety regulations to prevent child abuse.
• Respond quickly and effectively to accidents and incidents; accurately prepare and submit Accident and Incident Reports in a timely manner.
• Instruct children in emergency procedures (fire, severe weather, lost child).
• Provide opportunities for individuals and the group to achieve goals and ensure program goals are met.
• Assist with recruitment and hiring of teachers and teacher assistants.
• Take direction from the child care director or program director, supervising and guiding child care teachers and teacher assistants.
• Maintain records and files (attendance, emergency information, accident/incident reports, behavioral documentation) in compliance with Connecticut State Department of Health licensing requirements and maintain communication with office personnel regarding enrollment, absences, and withdrawals.
• Maintain a positive, professional attitude and loyalty to the YMCA.
• Assist in the daily maintenance of the program.
• Guide staff and children by modeling behaviors that preserve quality of supplies, equipment, and materials.
• Maintain inventory of supplies.
• Be responsible for forwarding notices and fee receipts to parents.
• Continue professional development as outlined in the Connecticut State Department of Health licensing requirements (annual training hours equal to or greater than 20% of hours worked) and any training required by the YMCA or other accrediting agencies.
• Be knowledgeable and supportive of YMCA programs and encourage member participation in events and programs.
• Assume any other duties as directed by supervisor or director.

• Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgment.
• Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively, engaging, inspiring, and building commitment to the Y’s cause.
• Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.
• Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.
• Inclusion: Values all people for their unique…