POSITION SUMMARY

The Stephens Family YMCA is seeking a caring, dedicated Preschool Teacher to lead a morning classroom for children ages 3–5. This position offers the opportunity to create a fun, supportive, and educational environment that helps children develop socially, emotionally, and academically.

Our preschool follows the Unit 4 School District calendar, and teachers play a key role in preparing students for kindergarten readiness through creative and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION*

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:15 AM–12:00 PM

Reports to: Preschool Director

Status: Part-time

Minimum Age: 21 years old

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create and implement weekly lesson plans based on developmentally appropriate practices.
• Provide daily classroom leadership, ensuring a nurturing and structured environment for all children.
• Supervise and engage children in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.
• Promote positive behavior, independence, and peer relationships through intentional teaching and redirection.
• Maintain daily communication with families and collaborate with other preschool staff.
• Ensure classroom meets YMCA and DCFS licensing standards, including cleanliness, safety, and child-to-staff ratios.
• Maintain accurate records such as attendance, developmental observations, and incident reports.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings and required trainings.
• Perform all other duties commonly expected of a lead preschool teacher.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or GED required; background in Early Childhood Education highly preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience working with preschool-aged children in a structured or licensed childcare setting.
• Must successfully pass a background check and be eligible for the Central Background Registry (per Illinois childcare licensing requirements).
• CPR/AED & First Aid Certification (Adult/Child/Infant) required within 30 days of hire.
• Strong communication, organization, and classroom management skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and actively participate in activities with children both indoors and outdoors.
• Passion for working with young children and creating a positive, inclusive classroom environment.

OUR CULTURE

At the Stephens Family YMCA, our mission is to strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are guided by the core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, and we strive to build a welcoming and inclusive environment for every child and family we serve.

ABUSE PREVENTION

As a YMCA staff member, you are responsible for ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members, participants, and colleagues. This includes actively adhering to and promoting the YMCA's abuse risk management policies, which are designed to prevent and address any potential incidents of abuse. You are expected to remain vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse, report any concerns or suspicious behaviors immediately, and participate in required training to stay informed on best practices for safeguarding. Your commitment to these protocols is essential in fostering a trusted, respectful, and secure environment for everyone involved in YMCA programs and services.

BENEFITS

• Free YMCA membership
• Discount on YMCA programs and merchandise
• 403(b) and 401(a) (upon eligibility)
• Paid time off in conjunction with IL Paid Leave for All Workers Act