UPK Head Teacher New York State Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 2)

Position: UPK Head Teacher New York State Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) Location: Valhalla, NY Job Id: 292 # of Openings: 1 UPK Head Teacher – Early Learning Center YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester All applicants must hold New York State Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) to be considered. The YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester is seeking a passionate and highly qualified UPK Head Teacher to join our Early Learning team for the 2026–2027 school year . This is a full-time, 10-month seasonal position with summers off and a competitive salary commensurate with experience. The UPK Head Teacher will provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children in alignment with NYS regulations, YMCA standards, and district requirements. This role requires collaboration, creativity, and a strong commitment to early childhood education. Key Responsibilities Design and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with diverse learning styles Implement individualized instruction to meet the needs of each child Develop and distribute instructional materials, assignments, and learning supports Assess, document, and monitor student progress with ongoing feedback Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and stimulating classroom environment Collaborate with co-teachers, support staff, families, and district partners Plan and facilitate indoor and outdoor learning activities and school events Monitor student behavior, safety, and well-being; report concerns as required Uphold YMCA core values: Respect, Responsibility, Caring, and Honesty Participate in all required trainings, district seminars, and professional development Maintain compliance with Pre-K On My Way Curriculum and YMCA standards Follow all NYS OCFS regulations and YMCA policies at all times Maintain required staffing ratios and ensure child safety Support daily routines including meals, hygiene, and classroom transitions Complete required documentation (attendance, health checks, records, etc.) Assist with light housekeeping to maintain a clean learning environment Support programming during early dismissals, school breaks, and snow days as needed Build strong, positive relationships with families, children, and staff Complete 30 hours of professional development every two years (minimum 15 hours within first 6 months) Follow all YMCA emergency procedures, safety protocols, and discipline policies Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership Qualifications Minimum age: 18 years Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Valid NYS Certification (Birth–Grade 2 required) Strong knowledge of early childhood development (ages 3–5) Excellent communication, organizational, and classroom leadership skills CPR/AED and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire) Prior preschool teaching experience preferred Ability to build strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues $45,000 – $50,000 annually (commensurate with experience) Locations ELC Hawthorne: 170 Bradhurst Ave, Hawthorne, NY 10532 #J-18808-Ljbffr YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester