Preschool Lead Teacher

Description: Join the YMCA’s Before & After School team serving students at off-site school locations throughout Thornapple Kellogg Schools! Staff who work both before-school and after-school program hours on the same day receive an additional $2/hour shift premium.Plus, earn a sign-on bonus! New hires who apply on or after October 12 and start before November 16, 2026, are eligible for a sign-on bonus of up to $500 for staff averaging at least 10 hours per week. Start your journey with the Y and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families!POSITION SUMMARYThe Lead Teacher is responsible for the planning, developing, and implementation of Wobbler classroom activities. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program and may involve early morning responsibilities. This position is looking for weekday availability 7:00 - 8:30 AM; and/or 3:00 - 5:30 PM.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSPlans and leads daily lesson plansOrganizes and participates in games and activitiesProvides weekly lesson plans to parentsProvides each participant’s parent with information on individual activities on a daily basisPrepares materials for daily activitiesMaintains records of attendance and arrival and departure timesMaintains supervision of childrenConducts parent-teacher conferences at least annuallyMaintains the quality and quantity of supplies, equipment, and materials in the classroomDisciplines children and recommends or initiates other measures to control behaviorHandles parent concernsPerforms any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand RapidsCOMPENSATION$17.09 - $21.36 ; Non-Exempt, Part-Time (up to 25 hours/week)BENEFITSFree YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family. Requirements: QUALIFICATIONSDegree in Early Childhood Education or CDA required. Bachelor’s Degree (BA) preferred; six months to one year childcare related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Ability and desire to work with infants, toddlers, preschool and school age children. Working knowledge of computers and experience with a variety of software applications. YMCA experience preferred.CERTIFICATIONSBlood Borne Pathogen trainingCPR Certification required within the first 60 daysFirst Aid Certification required within the first 60 daysState of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)FingerprintingWORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.TRAVEL:0 - 5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.PM21Compensation details: 17.09-21.36 Hourly WagePI777925b4aefd-26289-42011713