Preschool Teacher

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:

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.