Lead Teacher- Preschool

Lead Teacher- Preschool

JCC Association

Vestal, NY • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

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Job description

Principal Responsibilities:
Exciting opportunity to join our team as a full- time Lead Preschool Teacher at Binghamton JCC! The Lead Teacher is instrumental in managing the day-to-day operations of our Preschool classroom. We are seeking a proactive and compassionate individual who is dedicated to nurturing a positive learning environment for our students.
The successful candidate will support the development and implementation of our educational program reflecting the goals and values of the school. The lead teacherwill contribute knowledge, insight, ideas, and creativity as a part of our teaching team. Additionally, the lead teacher brings a love of learning which allows them to introduce children to a supportive, creative Jewish learning environment, and is well versed in child development.
Key Responsibilities:
Under the direction and supervision of the JCC Early Childhood Education Director and Managers, the Lead Teacher will be responsible for directing all aspects of the program for a group of toddler aged children. The Lead Teacher will plan daily activities that ensure the children's social, physical, emotional, and mental development in accordance with the developmental philosophy of the Early Childhood Education Program and the mission of the Jewish Community Center.
Candidates must be dedicated to:
  • Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that promote learning and development in areas such as math, physical education, and child welfare.
  • Maintain accurate records of each child's progress and development.
  • Monitor and assess the development of each child, providing feedback and guidance as needed.
  • Promoting social and emotional development of children including: helps children recognize and acknowledge their emotions by using empathy, help children cope with separation and transitions, and using tones, words and gestures that make the children feel respected and valued.
  • Following all relevant ethical standards and professional guidelines put in place by Office of Children and Family Services and use of Developmentally Appropriate Practices
  • Upholds standards of confidentiality, sensitivity and respect for children, families, and colleagues
  • Displaying professionalism in practice
  • Maintains professional boundaries in relationships with staff, children and families.
  • Communicating regularly, respectfully, and effectively with families
  • Fostering a sense of community in the classroom by encouraging interaction, empathy, connectedness, responsibility, and independence.
  • Ongoing training and professional development
  • Maintaining ongoing professional development record
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Principal Activities:
1. Supervising children in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments in such a manner that promotes the health and safety of all children.
2. Keeping up to date records for a group of children including attendance, health records, incident, and sickness reports.
3. Communicating in oral and written English with the staff, children, and parents.
4. Communicating behavior or incidents to parents and conducting conferences as requested or required.
5. Carrying a child up to 45 pounds in an emergency and being able to sit on low chairs and floor to communicate with children at eye level.
6. Participating in large motor experiences including swimming, walking, climbing stairs and running.
7. Maintain the cleanliness of areas used by children and report any unsafe equipment to supervisors.
8. Meeting the New York State DCC Licensing Regulations, the policies in the ECC Handbook and the standards of quality necessary for NAEYC accreditation.
9. Attending a minimum of 15 hours of additional training a year. First 15 hours to be completed in the first 6 months of employment
10. Participation and support of all childcare duties and other JCC activities as assigned by the Early Childhood Education Directors
Benefits:
Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Minimum of an Associates Degree in Early Childhood/ Related Field or CDA.
  • Experience or educational background in working with young children desired.
  • Ability to work well with young children, teachers, administration, and parents.
  • Patience, compassion, and a genuine love for working with children.
  • Ability to carry a child up to 45 pounds in case of emergency.
  • Ability to sit on low chairs and on the floor to communicate with children at eye level.
* $18/hour with a 40-42.5-hour schedule
* Comprehensive benefits package
* Opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic organization
* Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and respect
* Access to JCC facilities and programming for employees and their families
* Discounts on JCC programming such as personal training, swim lessons, preschool, and camp.
Salary:
$35,000 - $45,000
Agency Information:
If you are passionate about working in a community-based organization and have a strong desire to contribute to the success of the Binghamton JCC's Early Childhood Education Center, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your resume and cover letter to Toni Dougherty at tonid@binghamtonjcc.org. We look forward to hearing from you!
Since its inception in 1927, the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Binghamton, NY has grown to become an essential part of the Broome County community. As a full-service, non-profit organization, the JCC provides educational, cultural, recreational, and physical fitness programs to enhance the quality of life for all ages, from infants to senior citizens. As a non-sectarian United Way partner, the Center welcomes participants regardless of age, race, religion, sexual orientation, nationality, or ability to pay.
The JCC's facility houses a natatorium with a 2250 sq. ft. pool, gymnasium, small fitness center, men's and women's health clubs, steam, sauna, a fitness loft with spin bikes and Pilates reformers, stage, auditorium, and more. Over 200 children are served daily at our award-winning Early Childhood Center. Our year-round educational childcare includes UPK, after-school program, summer camp, and youth sports offerings.



Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Preschool Lead Teacher?

A: To succeed as a Preschool Lead Teacher, key technical skills include knowledge of child development theories, curriculum planning, and classroom management strategies. Essential soft skills include strong communication and interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues. These strengths support career growth and effectiveness by enabling the teacher to create a nurturing environment, foster learning and development, and lead a team of educators to achieve academic and social goals.

Q: What is the career path for a Preschool Lead Teacher?

A: A Preschool Lead Teacher's typical career progression involves starting as an Assistant Teacher or Preschool Teacher, then advancing to Lead Teacher or Program Director, and eventually assuming senior roles such as Center Director or Education Coordinator. Key opportunities for skill development and professional growth include obtaining early childhood education certifications, participating in professional development workshops, and gaining experience in curriculum development, staff management, and community outreach. Long-term career prospects may lead to roles in education administration, policy-making, or specialized positions like Director of Early Childhood Education or Child Development Specialist.