UPK Lead Teacher (Albany)

of Your Role

The primary function of the UPK Lead Teacher will be to play a vital role in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years old in accordance with the approved CSDA curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives. Your focus will be on creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment that fosters academic and social-emotional achievement in conjunction with the second-step curriculum. The classroom configuration consists of 18 students, one teacher, and one teacher's assistant.

Key Job Responsibilities:

The following non-exhaustive list of job duties required for this position:

Leadership & Supervision

• Collaborate effectively with the Teaching Assistant to implement planned lessons, ensuring a safe and positive classroom environment.
• Provide clear guidance and direction to the Teaching Assistant regarding daily tasks and responsibilities.
• Conduct regular evaluations of the Teaching Assistant's performance and provide constructive feedback.
• Offer mentorship and coaching to support the professional growth of the Teaching Assistant.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team dynamic within the classroom.

Planning

• Develop comprehensive and engaging weekly lesson plans that align with the approved curriculum and meet individual student needs.
• Incorporate a variety of teaching methods and materials to accommodate different learning styles.
• Design age-appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Collaborate with the Teaching Assistant to prepare and organize all necessary materials for daily activities.
• Utilize curriculum resources, such as Learning Without Tears and 2nd Step, to provide a well-rounded educational experience.
• Adapt lesson plans as needed based on ongoing assessment of student progress and interests.

Education Delivery

• Implement innovative and hands-on classroom activities that align with predetermined units of study.
• Create a stimulating learning environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of all students, including those with special needs or advanced abilities
• Facilitate both small group and whole class learning experiences
• Integrate technology appropriately to enhance learning experiences.
• Provide opportunities for student-led activities and exploration.

Assessment and Reporting

• Conduct ongoing assessments of student progress using various methods (e.g., observations, portfolios, developmental checklists)
• Provide timely and accurate progress reports, attendance records, and other required documentation.
• Complete progress monitoring reports, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about student progress, concerns, and achievements.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other family engagement activities.
• Use assessment data to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.

Health & Safety

• Adhere to and enforce all health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
• Implement proper sanitation and disinfection procedures in the classroom.
• Monitor the health and wellness of students, promptly reporting any concerns to parents/guardians and administrators.
• Maintain a safe and secure classroom environment, addressing potential hazards promptly.

Requirements:

CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

Education and Experience:

• Required - Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field from a regionally accredited college or university
• Minimum one (1) year of professional experience working with youth between 3-5 years of age
• Group leadership skills, including an understanding of group dynamics
• Knowledge of principles related to the development of youth between 3-5 years of age

Required Certifications:

• Valid NYS Teaching Certificate in Early Childhood Education B-2nd OR Masters equivalents such as Literacy B-2nd or Curriculum Development, OR Currently enrolled in a certification program
• Mandated Reporter Certification
• CPR and First Aid Training

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
• Strong Computer Skills (Microsoft Office, Google Drive & Docs, Email)
• Must pass a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, and sex offender registry check, as required by BGCCA

Work environment:

• Early childhood classroom environment with moderate noise levels from children's activities. Indoor school setting with standard classroom temperature control.

Travel required:

• Minimal travel is required, with occasional attendance at off-site professional development or district meetings.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing/walking for up to 8 hours per day
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds
• Fine motor coordination for computer work
• Regular verbal communication with children, staff, and parents
• Visual acuity to monitor children's activities and safety

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds, including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community, are encouraged to apply.

Compensation details: 18.75-22.75 Hourly Wage

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