YMCA - Springfield, MA
posted 5 months ago
The Early Childhood Education Assistant Teacher at the YMCA of Greater Springfield is responsible for creating a nurturing and healthy environment that fosters the overall growth and well-being of children in the program. Under the guidance of the Education Center Director, the Assistant Teacher will assist the Lead Teacher in various classroom functions, including teaching and role modeling. The position requires planning and implementing a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate curriculum that aligns with State Core Competencies, the Early Learning Framework, and the Big Day Curriculum. The Assistant Teacher will maintain strong relationships with each child, ensuring that appropriate supports are in place to help them become increasingly competent and independent. Continuous monitoring of children's progress will be conducted through observation, portfolios, and assessments using Teaching Strategies GOLD. Safety is paramount, and the Assistant Teacher will provide visual and auditory supervision of children at all times, whether in the classroom, on the playground, or during field trips. In addition to classroom responsibilities, the Assistant Teacher will engage in center activities as needed and work collaboratively as part of a team. They will plan and attend four parent conference meetings each year, fostering positive relationships with children and their families, and encouraging parental involvement in the program. Ongoing communication with parents/guardians will be maintained through newsletters and notices. The Assistant Teacher will also collaborate with PEG partners, SPS, and support staff, attending regular agency staff meetings and Professional Learning Community meetings. Building relationships with community organizations and promoting public relations by integrating the community into the classroom is also a key aspect of this role. The Assistant Teacher will attend training and professional development opportunities, maintain adequate classroom supplies and equipment, and manage children's records, including attendance. They will be responsible for completing necessary documentation and reports, inputting QRIS PQR data into the system regularly. In the absence of the Lead Teacher, the Assistant Teacher will prepare and lead classroom activities, guiding and directing other teaching staff and auxiliary personnel assigned to the classroom. This position is dynamic and may require adjustments to meet operational needs.