Preschool Teacher Assistant

Preschool Teacher Assistant

Imagine being part of one of the most respected human services organizations in the world—a place where your work positively influences the lives of others, a place where you thrive in a values-based environment, a place where you are building a better future for yourself and your community.

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas and the Virginia Department of Social Services Child Care Licensing Standards, the preschool teacher assistant shall be responsible for providing a safe, caring, learning environment for the preschool participants. With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Preschool Teacher Assistant will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.

Qualifications

1. Minimum of 16 years of age.

2. High School diploma or equivalent required.

3. Minimum of one year experience in a related field in a supervised setting.

4. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2 required within 30 days.

5. Proof of a negative TB test within the last 2 years.

6. Medication Administration Training (MAT) Certification preferred.

7. Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to: New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.

8. Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check, Virginia State Police background check, and Child Protective Services check.

Essential Functions

1. Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.

2. Promote a professional work environment through character development by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

3. Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

4. Assist the teacher with supervision, behavior management and safety of assigned preschool children.

5. Supervise the children within sight and sound during an assigned shift. Know the whereabouts of the children, and maintain knowledge of the number of children in the assigned group at all times.

6. Assist with planning and preparing for daily programs and activities for preschool participants.

7. Assist in the preparation and clean up of needed supplies and materials for daily activities.

8. Actively participate in group organized games and activities, including but not limited to, swimming, team-building activities, and arts and crafts.

9. Follow Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers and department Association standards.

10. Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.

11. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.

12. With the assistance of the teacher, communicate with parents regarding children's needs and report daily activities.

13. Wear staff uniform and name tag, or professional attire when appropriate.

14. Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts to include Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.

15. Act as a leader in emergency situations. Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.

16. Ensure all members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively follow branch Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).

17. Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Preschool Department and branch operations to ensure an excellent member experience.

YMCA Competencies (Leader):

Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Functional Expertise

Skills and Ability Requirements:

1. Ability to observe children's behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.

2. Ability to communicate and work with assigned ages and skill levels and provide necessary instruction to preschool childcare participants.

3. Ability to plan, lead and participate in appropriate childcare activities.

4. Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities.

5. Physical ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and those situations requiring first aid.

6. Physical strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of children.

7. Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Effect on End Result:

1. The membership growth and retention plan for the branch is achieved.

2. A high degree of member satisfaction is achieved as measured by Net Promoters.

3. A positive image of the YMCA is portrayed to members, staff, volunteers and the community.

4. A pleasant and comfortable working environment is maintained for all staff.

5. Relationships are strengthened through intentional interactions.

6. The facility will be safe, clean and an enjoyable place as measured by Q Checks and Risk Management Audits.

7. Superior quality standards are met as evidenced by department's Association Audit Score and maintaining licensure.

Excellent benefits, including 12% retirement upon meeting the requirements of the National YMCA Retirement Fund. Includes YMCA Adult Membership.