Head Preschool Teacher; Before & After School) Saybrook

About the Role The Valley Shore YMCA is seeking a friendly, reliable, and service-oriented Head Preschool Teacher to lead a high-quality early childhood classroom where young children can learn, grow, and thrive. This position plays a key role in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that supports each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development while fostering strong partnerships with families.

The Head Preschool Teacher is a positive presence that fosters a warm, engaging, and inclusive classroom where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to learn. Through compassionate leadership, thoughtful instruction, and meaningful relationships with children and families, this role reflects the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility every day.

Job Summary Join the Valley Shore YMCA as a Head Preschool Teacher and be part of a mission-driven team that promotes health, community, and connection. In this role, you’ll create a supportive learning environment where children can grow, explore, and develop through engaging activities while building positive relationships with children and families. Ideal for passionate early childhood educators who value teamwork, creativity, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners.

Enjoy free Valley Shore YMCA membership, training opportunities, and flexible hours while making a difference in your community.

What You’ll DoLead and supervise daily activities for school-age children in before- and after-school programs.

Provide guidance, support, and mentorship to program staff, fostering a positive team environment.

Plan, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate activities that promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

Encourage positive behavior, conflict resolution, and teamwork among children.

Support the development of individual children’s skills and interests through observation and interaction.

Providing regular, ongoing, and as-needed direct communication with parents and guardians.

Maintain a safe, healthy, and inclusive environment for all participants.

Conduct regular safety checks of the facility, equipment, and activity areas.

Respond appropriately to emergencies, incidents, or behavioral challenges, following Valley Shore YMCA’s protocols.

Maintain accurate attendance records, incident reports, and other program documentation.

Assist with staff scheduling, training, and performance evaluations.

Build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with volunteers, members, participants, staff, and colleagues.

Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.

Perform other related duties and special projects assigned.

What We’re Looking For Minimum age of 20 and compliance with Connecticut Office of Early Childhood Education (OEC) Head Teacher requirements.

Education:

High school diploma, 540 hours of experience with school-age children, and 12 college credits in child development, education, or a related field; or a bachelor’s degree and 270 hours of relevant experience.

Certification:
Certification in First Aid and CPR for childcare workers, along with Administration of Medication Training (injectables and oral).Completion of CT CCDF Orientation following achievement of required certifications.

Skills and Experience:

Strong people skills with the ability to connect and communicate effectively with diverse individuals and groups across all social and economic backgrounds.

Ability to work on-site for at least 80% of program hours and provide off-site support as needed, including evenings and weekends.

Reliable transportation for travel between program sites.

Understanding of inclusion and compliance with the Americans with…