Toy Association Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Teacher

Monday-Friday; 2026-2027 school year; 10 Month position from August-June | Full Time, Hourly

The Pre-K Counts Teacher is expected to provide a safe and developmentally appropriate preschool education in accordance with all relevant legislation, policies, and procedures within the State of Pennsylvania as a Certified Teacher, Instructional Level I OR Level II.  To maintain program quality in accordance with DHS, ECERS, NAEYC, OCDEL guidelines and YMCA program policies; ensure the safety, well-being and age appropriate instruction of all children in their care.

Some rewards for joining our team: 

• Free YMCA membership - access to all branches!

• 50% off programming including swimming lessons as well as childcare programs (early learning care, before and after care, day camp and overnight camp).

• Planning for your future? Ask us how we do it at the Y - it's awesome. 

• Comprehensive benefits package which includes health, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, etc.

What is needed for this job:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education as required by OCDEL
• Possess PA Teacher certification in Early Childhood Education as an Instructional Level I or Level II Teacher, maintain the certification
• Ongoing Training: fulfill required number of professional development hours for Pre K Counts and STARS, as well as attainment of Level II certification

The responsibilities we will trust you with:

• Plan curriculum for classroom following the proscribed curriculum and ensure child centered age-appropriate lessons are offered. Adhere to learn through play NAEYC philosophy. Ensure that staff in your room take on an active role in planning, implementing and actively participating in all activities. 
• Read and be accountable for YMCA Policies, State Licensing Body (PA- DHS) regulations, and Quality Rating System standards (Example: NAEYC, Keystone STARS).
• Supervise classroom staff to ensure that they are upholding all DOE/DHS/YMCA/Keystone stars/NAEYC guidelines for proper verbal interaction, proper learn through play techniques and age-appropriate redirection as a form of discipline.
• Accurately maintain daily records of attendance, mobile emergency contact binders, trip binders and allergy reports. 
• Ensure effective and timely communication of child progress with parents. Ensure that staff in your classroom maintain sensitivity and patience with the children and parents and provide care to meet the individual needs of the child/families. Always maintain confidentiality, and ensure staff are using correct verbal interactions with parents. 
• Conduct developmental assessments on the children and follow up with Family Conferences at a minimum of 3 times per year, report outcomes accurately using the outcomes reporting system designated by the funding source (TSG/WSS).
• Ensure staff adhere to the DOE/DHS/YMCA/ECERS/NAEYC standards for maintaining cleanliness, centers set up, toy bins and correct return of toys to areas. Ensure that staff are engaging children in the maintaining of said centers and items.
• Inform Director of any concerns regarding facility, space, staffing, child/staff ratios or child developmental issues that may require early intervention. 
• Effectively plan and manage resources. Ensure timely and effective use of materials, snacks, and other classroom resources. Ensure that staff in your room are also maintaining effective methods of usage.
• Ensure balance of small group interaction teacher directed activities vs. child choice activities, as required by NAEYC/Keystone STARS.
• Attend Staff Meetings/Team Teaching Meetings.Plan Back to School Night.
• Attend and renew as needed all trainings according to YMCA policies and licensing and funding requirements, including but not limited to 12 hours of childcare related trainings annually as detailed in your training plan.
• Read the NAEYC guidelines to be knowledgeable in the NAEYC procedures, and approach to early childhood education.
• Maintain knowledge of Association policies and procedures, risk management, safety practices, program funding requirements and applicable laws.
• Lead by example at all times.Interact with a high level of professionalism and accountability. 

What you can expect:

• Support from an amazing team

• Opportunities to learn & grow

• Being a part of a non-profit organization that works to make the community stronger

After reading this, if you're thinking this is great- we want to meet you!

Get the ball rolling with our quick, 3-minute online application.