Job Description

Job Location: 100 FANNY ROAD - MOUNTAIN LAKES, NJ 07046
Position Type: Full Time
Salary Range: $18.00 - $20.00 Hourly

Travel Percentage: None
Job Shift: Day
Job Category: Education
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA – Childcare Department
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Childcare Program Director
Job

Summary
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is seeking a dedicated Lead Teacher to oversee a preschool/pre-k classroom within our childcare program. The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing daily curriculum, maintaining a safe and engaging classroom environment, and supporting children's social, emotional, and academic development.
Our goal is to create a fun, positive learning environment where children grow in confidence and develop their abilities through physical, social, and academic learning.
Key Responsibilities
Classroom Leadership
- Plan and implement daily classroom curriculum and activities
- Develop and manage classroom schedules and lesson plans
- Create engaging activities tailored to the needs of each child
- Maintain a structured and positive classroom environment
Child Safety & Supervision
- Ensure the health and safety of all participants
- Administer minor first aid when needed
- Follow emergency medical procedures and complete incident reports
- Supervise children in classroom, playground, gym, locker room, and pool areas
- Ensure children are released only to authorized individuals
Parent Communication
- Maintain strong relationships with parents through daily interaction
- Provide updates through emails, conferences, and evaluations
- Respond to parent communications within 24 hours
- Share weekly themes, activities, and program updates
Classroom Management
- Maintain classroom supplies, equipment, and inventory
- Ensure classroom cleanliness and organization
- Follow cleaning schedules and safety procedures
- Display student artwork and learning materials
Team Collaboration
- Work cooperatively with YMCA staff and volunteers
- Assist the Childcare Director with supervising and training aides and assistants
- Support YMCA association events and childcare program initiatives
Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintain attendance records and emergency information
- Track classroom supplies and expenses
- Assist with documentation and program reporting

Qualifications

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Minimum 1 year classroom experience in preschool or pre-k
- Strong knowledge of early childhood development
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff and volunteers
- Clean criminal background
- First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the day
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and assist children
- Strong visual and communication abilities to supervise children safely
- Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.