Lead Preschool Teacher

Job DetailsJob Location: 100 FANNY ROAD - MOUNTAIN LAKES, NJ 07046Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $18.00 - $20.00 HourlyTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: DayJob 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   QualificationsRequired 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.