Lead Preschool Educator, Lawrenceville

Location: Estelle S. Campbell Clubhouse (Lawrenceville)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday | Morning & Afternoon Hours
Status: Salaried, Exempt
Compensation: $45,000 annually

The Role

The Lead Preschool Educator serves as the primary teacher within our preschool classroom, creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children ages 3–5. This role is responsible for planning and implementing high-quality instruction, supporting child development, fostering strong family partnerships, and ensuring a positive classroom culture where every child feels valued and supported.

This position plays a key role in helping young learners build the foundational skills they need for future success while advancing BGCWPA's mission of ensuring all youth have great futures.

What You'll Do

Create Meaningful Learning Experiences

• Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards.
• Foster growth in literacy, math, science, creative arts, social-emotional learning, and physical development.
• Create a classroom environment that encourages curiosity, exploration, creativity, and independence.
• Utilize positive behavior support strategies that help children build confidence and self-regulation skills.

Build Strong Relationships

• Develop positive, trusting relationships with children and families.
• Communicate regularly regarding children's growth, development, and classroom experiences.
• Support family engagement opportunities, conferences, and classroom events.
• Create an inclusive environment where all children and families feel welcome and supported.

Ensure Safety & Program Quality

• Maintain active supervision and ensure the safety and well-being of all children.
• Support compliance with licensing, health, safety, and youth protection requirements.
• Maintain classroom records, child assessments, and required documentation.
• Participate in professional development and continuous quality improvement efforts.

Support Great Futures

• Celebrate children's achievements and developmental milestones.
• Encourage confidence, independence, problem-solving, and positive peer relationships.
• Serve as a positive role model for children through professionalism, compassion, and integrity.
• Contribute to a collaborative team culture focused on providing exceptional experiences for youth and families.

What You'll Bring

• Passion for early childhood education and child development.
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to create safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environments.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to providing exceptional experiences for children and families.
• Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team while leading a classroom with confidence.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, or a related field meeting PA DHS Chapter 3270 Group Supervisor qualifications.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with preschool-aged children.
• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and basic technology applications.

Preferred

• Pennsylvania Teaching Certification.
• Experience with Frog Street Curriculum and/or Teaching Strategies GOLD.
• Experience working within Keystone STARS programs.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices, inclusive classrooms, and PBIS.

Certifications & Clearances

Successful candidates must obtain and maintain all required clearances and certifications, including Child Abuse Clearance, PA Criminal History, FBI Clearance, NSOR Verification, TB Test, Mandated Reporter Training, and CPR/Pediatric First Aid certification.

Who We Are

For over 135 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) has been a trailblazer in youth development, committed to unleashing the potential of every child. Rooted deeply in the values of safety, fun, and inclusivity, BGCWPA prides itself on cultivating an environment where every child and employee can flourish.

At the heart of our vision lies a commitment to providing opportunities that transcend boundaries. Through creative and forward-thinking programs, we aim to equip our youth with the skills, knowledge, and resilience necessary for a brighter future. BGCWPA is not merely an organization; it is a dynamic force that shapes destinies, cultivates dreams and empowers the leaders of tomorrow.

As a proud affiliate of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, BGCWPA aligns itself with a nationwide network of organizations dedicated to empowering young people. Our collective impact extends beyond our local community, fostering positive change on a national scale. Annually, BGCWPA reaches over 7,500 young individuals through a rich tapestry of innovative programs, services, and outreach initiatives.

Commitment to Inclusion

BGCWPA is committed to building a culturally diverse community and we believe in the importance of equity and inclusion. We understand that every individual brings a unique set of skills and experiences. While our job description lists specific qualifications, skills, and competencies, we also recognize that true potential can often transcend those lines. If you're enthusiastic about social impact and helping others succeed, even if you don't meet every qualification, we encourage you to apply.

We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. Our organization prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.