Preschool Teacher - Elk Point/Jefferson

POSITION DETAILS:
Job Title: Preschool Teacher
Status: Full Time Non-Exempt
Department: Youth Development
Reports to: Director of Youth Development

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Preschool Teacher plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that supports early learning, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness. Strong relationships with children and families are at the heart of this work. Guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Foster a warm and supportive environment where children feel a sense of belonging and develop confidence through achievement.
2. Lead the daily operation of the preschool classroom, managing early learning program routines, maintaining proper ratios, transitions, and lesson delivery.
3. Ensure a physically and emotionally safe learning space for all children.
4. Plan, implement, and adapt lesson plans that support early childhood learning objectives and encourage positive youth development.
5. Actively supervise children and staff, using Pyramid Model strategies to promote social-emotional learning, respectful redirection, and maintain safety.
6. Build strong, positive relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open and professional communication.
7. Prepare and organize materials for daily activities.
8. Ensure program space and equipment are clean, organized, and safe; promptly report any safety concerns.
9. Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and family engagement events.
10. Model professional behavior while following YMCA policies related to confidentiality, conduct, and behavioral expectations.
11. Adhere to all local, state, and YMCA policies and procedures, including ADA accommodations where appropriate.
12. Model YMCA core values and use the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing. Support and guide other staff in demonstrating these behaviors consistently across the program.
13. Perform additional duties as assigned to support the program and broader YMCA mission.

YMCA COMPETENCY AREAS:

• Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Uses sound judgment and situational awareness to make informed decisions in the classroom setting.
• Communication & Influence: Communicates clearly and respectfully with children, families, and team members to build trust and maintain a positive environment.
• Functional Expertise (Youth Development): Applies knowledge of early childhood development to implement quality preschool programming aligned with YMCA standards.
• Developing Self & Others: Models the Y’s values and seeks opportunities for continuous learning and collaboration with peers.
• Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates patience, composure, and empathy when managing behaviors, guiding children, and supporting families.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Two years of previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred.
• Previous experience supervising or leading staff in a developmental setting preferred.
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire):

• Bloodborne Pathogens Training (or equivalent approved by the YMCA)
• Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
• Emergency Procedures Training
• CPR and First Aid Certification
• All state-specific licensing and training requirements for the state of employment (Iowa, Nebraska, or South Dakota)

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds safely and repeatedly using proper technique.
• Physically able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, sit on the floor, and move quickly to respond to children's needs.
• Participate in active play, including indoor and outdoor activities in a variety of weather conditions.
• Maintain continuous visual and auditory supervision of children in busy, dynamic environments.
• Adapt to a fast-paced, team-centered work environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
• Must demonstrate emotional resilience, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

IMPACT STATEMENT:
This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA’s mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.