Lead Preschool Teacher

Who We Are
Manchester Youth Development Center (MYDC) is a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, families, and communities. Our mission is to create a welcoming, safe, and caring environment, nurturing academic, social, and emotional development to empower youth to become engaged, productive citizens. Our holistic approach focuses on positive goal-setting and family mobilization, serving as a catalyst for lasting change in our community. We provide a comprehensive range of educational, recreational, and social programs, equipping young individuals with the skills and confidence necessary for success, and are committed to making a profound impact on the lives of youth in Manchester.
Who We’re Looking For
Create a world of wonder and discovery at MYDC! Join us as our Lead Preschool Teacher and play a vital role in instructing and guiding preschool-aged children. Lead engaging educational activities, develop enriching curriculum, and monitor student progress, fostering their social, physical, and intellectual development in our stimulating preschool environment, ensuring each child thrives. A valid Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate in early childhood education is required for this role.
Essential Duties
- Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that align with early childhood education standards and promote children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
- Structure the daily schedule and classroom activities to provide a balance of structured learning, free play, and rest periods.
- Utilize a variety of teaching methods and materials to engage children and accommodate different learning styles.
- Oversee and actively participate in all classroom activities, ensuring a safe and positive learning environment.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment that promotes exploration and discovery.
- Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Implement positive behavior management techniques to guide children's behavior and promote social skills.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, providing regular updates on their child's progress and addressing any concerns.
- Conduct parent-teacher conferences to discuss children's growth and development.
- Participate in family engagement activities and events.
- Maintain open communication with parents daily about their child’s day.
- Participate in team meetings and professional development opportunities
- Follow all program policies, safety rules, and Keystone STARS regulations.
- Lead and work alongside other staff to ensure a smooth day; communicate any issues or concerns.
- Collaborate with the team to constantly improve and innovate the preschool/Training Wheels program experience.
- Provide feedback and suggestions for program enhancements.
Compensation: $45,000-$52,000
Experience/Education Requirement:
- Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience working with preschool or young children in a group setting (i.e., daycare, preschool, early intervention).
- Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
- Experience in curriculum development and implementation, demonstrating knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices.
- Successful completion of all required child protective services clearances, or ability to obtain them.
- Valid Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate; specifically in early childhood education.
- Current certifications in Pediatric First Aid and CPR.
- Pre-employment Physical and TB Test.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge of child development principles and practices.
- Ability to plan and facilitate engaging activities for different age groups.
- Skilled in developing and implementing educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
- Ability to create a nurturing and supportive learning environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to think creatively, adapt to changing situations, and find innovative solutions.
- Ability to lead and work collaboratively with Assistant Teacher to ensure classroom success.
- Ability to follow safety regulations and procedures, and maintain a safe and secure environment.
- Patience, flexibility, and a passion for working with young children.
- Genuine enthusiasm for working with youth and a commitment to fostering their growth, development, and wellbeing.