Summary
Type
full-time
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About this role
Lead Teacher – Early Learning Program
YMCA of Metropolitan Washington
$20 per hour
The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington, one of the largest charities in the DC area, is a mission-driven organization committed to nurturing the potential of children, promoting healthy living, and supporting social responsibility. When you join the Y, you join a cause — a career that is bigger than a job.
About the Role
As a Lead Teacher, you will play a key role in shaping the early learning experiences of young children. Reporting to the Early Learning Director or Assistant Director, this position is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that support every child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
If you are passionate about early education, love using creativity in the classroom, and thrive in a collaborative environment — we want to meet you!
What You’ll Do
- Plan, supervise, and implement classroom programs aligned with YMCA goals and standards
- Create and deliver developmentally appropriate lesson plans with your expertise
- Utilize the Creative Curriculum to support learning through purposeful play
- Design daily routines that make education fun, engaging, and meaningful
- Ensure a safe environment and monitor children closely at all times
- Communicate effectively with families, colleagues, and educational partners
- Maintain a warm, welcoming, and visually engaging classroom aligned with YMCA and NAEYC guidelines
Qualifications
- At least 20 years of age
- CDA, AA, BA, or BS in Early Childhood Education or related field
- Current CPR & First Aid certification
- Physical exam and TB test
- Able to meet county/state licensing and background requirements
- Three years’ experience working with children and one year teaching in a licensed center
- A positive, collaborative, and creative attitude
Working Conditions
- Ability to sit or stand for long periods
- Physically active—able to participate in play and learning activities
- Lift up to 35 pounds
- Able to visually monitor children consistently
Why Join the YMCA?
We offer a supportive, inspiring, and mission-driven work environment, plus:
- Competitive pay
- 10% employer-funded retirement plan (vested after two years)
- 403(b) savings plan
- High-quality, affordable healthcare
- Free YMCA membership for you and your family
- Paid time off
- Professional development and career growth
- Work with talented, diverse, and creative people
⭐ Be part of a career that shapes the next generation.
📩 Apply today and grow with the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington!
The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is an equal opportunity employer and values a range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. We strive to be a welcoming organization where all staff, members, and communities feel respected, supported, and that they belong.
Other facts
About YMCA of Metropolitan Washington
We know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. That’s why, at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
OUR IMPACT
The YMCA is one of the largest social service agencies serving Washington D.C., suburban Maryland and northern Virginia. Every year, we provide opportunities in wellness, aquatics, youth sports, summer camp, child care, and more for over 250,000 people through our 17 branches and program centers.
Our utmost goal is to make the Y and all we offer accessible and available to the entire community. With the help of our generous donors, community partners and members, we were able to provide $2,662,507 in scholarships and subsidies to more than 12,400 children, adults and families in 2014.
Over 3,140 volunteers gave 161,572 hours of their time and talent in 2014 to help the YMCA fulfill its mission. From dedicated board members to talented program volunteers, these caring friends and neighbors help the YMCA serve more individuals and impact more communities every year.
With a mission to build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all, our impact is felt when an individual makes a healthy choice, when a mentor inspires a child and when a community comes together for the common good.
What you'll do
- As a Lead Teacher, you will plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities for young children. You will also ensure a safe environment and communicate effectively with families and colleagues.
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