Overview
JOB TITLE : Preschool Teacher
LOCATION : Ridgewood, NJ
REPORTS TO : Senior Director of Youth Programming
STATUS : Part-Time (Non-Exempt)
DURATION : Ongoing
PAYRATE : $23-$27 Hourly
Culture
At the Ridgewood Y, our mission and core values come to life through our culture. Guided by our four pillars—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—we strengthen communities with purpose and intentionality. As a nonprofit charitable organization, we have served youth, adults, and families across Northern New Jersey and the Camp Bernie area since 1902, as part of the worldwide YMCA movement. Through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, we create meaningful connections that build spirit, mind, and body for all. Our team is dependable, hardworking, and ready to roll up our sleeves to get the job done. We believe in diversity, collaboration, and showing up for one another. If you're looking to make a difference and be part of a mission-driven team, the Ridgewood Y is the place for you. The Ridgewood YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from any and all walks of life.
Benefits
- Complimentary membership to the Ridgewood Y for you, including access to pools, fitness centers, and group fitness classes
- 25% discount on programming and events
- Retirement Savings & 403(b) Smart Account after eligibility requirements are met
Position Summary
The Preschool Teacher provides direct supervision and guidance to children in a preschool classroom setting, implementing age-appropriate curriculum and activities that support their growth and development. This role is responsible for creating a safe, engaging environment that encourages positive behavior and fosters meaningful connections among children, other students, and families. The Ridgewood YMCA Preschool Program operates Monday–Friday, from September through June. Our Preschool Teachers also have the opportunity for additional work if desired when preschool is not in session, including summer camps, vacation camps, enrichment, evening events, and other Ridgewood YMCA programs.
Job Function
Provide direct care and supervision to children in the Preschool program, maintaining constant awareness and responding appropriately to emergencies or crisis situations.Assist the Head Teacher in implementing the curriculum and conducting developmental observations.Develop classroom centers that respond to children's interests and align with the ongoing curriculum.Facilitate student assessments and work sampling.Work with parents to promote understanding of their child's growth and development. Communicate effectively with parents, verbally and in writing, throughout the school year.Encourage parent participation in special events, meetings, and in-class volunteer opportunities.Work as a supportive team member within the Ridgewood YMCA and supervise Assistant Teachers.Maintain a clean and safe classroom environment.Maintain accurate program documentation, including incident / accident / behavior reports, attendance sheets, sign-in / sign-out sheets, and parent surveys.Ensure that all Ridgewood YMCA, NJ Department of Education, and NJ Department of Health guidelines are followed.Actively participate in designated meetings, training sessions, open houses, and special events.Perform additional duties as assigned.Qualifications
Must be 18 years of age or older.CDA, Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, or current enrollment in an education degree program preferred.High School Diploma required.Minimum one year of experience working with preschool-age children in a licensed program, or an educational background in Early Childhood Education.Previous experience with diverse populations is preferred; the ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from all backgrounds.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Creative, energetic, hardworking, and able to supervise and relate well to children, parents and staff.Work Environment and Physical Conditions
The physical demands listed are essential functions of this role; reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.Ability to walk, run, stand, and sit for long periods.May be required to lift and / or carry items up to 50 lbs.Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and to act swiftly in an emergency.The Ridgewood YMCA is a 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization. Donations are tax-exempt. FEIN : 22-1508752
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