Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Starting Pay: $18.68/hour DOEFull-Time | Monday–Friday8-hour shifts scheduled between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PMLead Learning. Inspire Growth. Make an Impact.The YMCA of the Black Hills is seeking passionate and dedicated Preschool Room Lead Teachers to join our Early Learning team. This role is ideal for an experienced early childhood professional who is committed to creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. We have opportunities to work across various age groups, with classrooms ranging from infants, toddlers, and preschool age kiddos.As a Lead Teacher, you'll play a key role in shaping meaningful early learning experiences through hands-on teaching, curriculum development, staff leadership, and strong family partnerships. At the Y, we believe every child deserves a nurturing environment that supports academic, social, emotional, and physical development - and our teachers make that possible every day.What You'll DoClassroom Leadership & CurriculumCreate and implement age-appropriate, mission-driven lesson plans and classroom activitiesFoster children's academic, social, emotional, and physical developmentMaintain a positive, engaging, and inclusive classroom environmentEvaluate curriculum effectiveness and ensure portfolio and assessment deadlines are metUtilize YMCA Social and Emotional Curriculum and Conscious Discipline practicesStaff Support & Team DevelopmentTrain, mentor, and support early learning staffConduct formal and informal staff evaluations and provide ongoing coachingHelp team members achieve performance goals and maintain classroom quality standardsParticipate in regular team meetings and collaborative planningChild Safety & Classroom OperationsEnsure the safety, supervision, and well-being of every child in your careMaintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environmentMonitor classroom supplies, materials, and equipment usageFollow all YMCA safety procedures and state childcare licensing regulationsComplete accurate attendance, meal count, and incident documentationFamily Engagement & CommunicationBuild positive and professional relationships with familiesCommunicate regularly with parents regarding child development and classroom updatesDistribute newsletters and provide daily updates through the ProCare Engage AppCreate a welcoming environment where families feel informed and supportedQualificationsPassion for early childhood education and child developmentPrevious childcare or preschool teaching experience preferredChild Development Associate credential requiredStrong leadership, communication, and organizational skillsAbility to work collaboratively with children, families, and team membersKnowledge of child development and age-appropriate classroom practicesAbility to maintain a safe, active, and engaging classroom environmentCPR/First Aid certification required or ability to obtain within required timeframeMust meet South Dakota childcare licensing requirementsWhy Join the YMCA of the Black Hills?At the YMCA, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our Early Learning staff make a lasting impact by helping children build confidence, curiosity, independence, and lifelong learning skills.As a Preschool Room Lead Teacher, you'll have the opportunity to lead with purpose, support families, mentor staff, and create meaningful experiences that help children thrive every day.If you're ready to inspire young learners and make a difference in your community, apply today to join the YMCA of the Black Hills!