UPK Head Teacher New York State Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2)

UPK Head Teacher – Early Learning Center

YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester

All applicants must hold New York State Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) to be considered.

The YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester is seeking a passionate and highly qualified UPK Head Teacher to join our Early Learning team for the 2026–2027 school year. This is a full-time, 10-month seasonal position with summers off and a competitive salary commensurate with experience.

The UPK Head Teacher will provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children in alignment with NYS regulations, YMCA standards, and district requirements. This role requires collaboration, creativity, and a strong commitment to early childhood education.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with diverse learning styles
• Implement individualized instruction to meet the needs of each child
• Develop and distribute instructional materials, assignments, and learning supports
• Assess, document, and monitor student progress with ongoing feedback
• Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and stimulating classroom environment
• Collaborate with co-teachers, support staff, families, and district partners
• Plan and facilitate indoor and outdoor learning activities and school events
• Monitor student behavior, safety, and well-being; report concerns as required
• Uphold YMCA core values: Respect, Responsibility, Caring, and Honesty
• Participate in all required trainings, district seminars, and professional development
• Maintain compliance with Pre-K On My Way Curriculum and YMCA standards
• Follow all NYS OCFS regulations and YMCA policies at all times
• Maintain required staffing ratios and ensure child safety
• Support daily routines including meals, hygiene, and classroom transitions
• Complete required documentation (attendance, health checks, records, etc.)
• Assist with light housekeeping to maintain a clean learning environment
• Support programming during early dismissals, school breaks, and snow days as needed
• Build strong, positive relationships with families, children, and staff
• Complete 30 hours of professional development every two years (minimum 15 hours within first 6 months)
• Follow all YMCA emergency procedures, safety protocols, and discipline policies
• Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership

Qualifications

• Minimum age: 18 years
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
• Valid NYS Certification (Birth–Grade 2 required)
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development (ages 3–5)
• Excellent communication, organizational, and classroom leadership skills
• CPR/AED and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• Prior preschool teaching experience preferred
• Ability to build strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues

Salary

$45,000 – $50,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Locations

• ELC Hawthorne: 170 Bradhurst Ave, Hawthorne, NY 10532
• ELC Valhalla: 2 Broadway, Valhalla, NY 10595