The SACC Head Teacher, Leads daily school-age program delivery, supervising assistant staff and ensuring compliance. Develops schedules and enrichment aligned with program goals.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Models and teaches YMCA core values (caring, honesty, respect, responsibility) with children, families, and staff; promotes a welcoming, inclusive environment.
- Leads daily program operations for the assigned site(s), including routines, transitions, group supervision, and enrichment/homework support.
- Plans, coordinates, and implements high-quality, developmentally appropriate activities aligned with program goals and YMCA guidelines.
- Supervises, coaches, and supports site staff; monitors performance and communicates staffing needs and performance feedback to the Child Care Director.
- Maintains strong relationships with families and school partners; communicates promptly and resolves concerns professionally, escalating issues as needed.
- Ensures compliance with Child Care procedures and licensing expectations (health/safety, ratios, supervision, behavior guidance, drop-off/pick-up, attendance, forms, reports, supplies, and staff expectations).
- Maintains active supervision and physical presence at all times; remains alert, keeps consistent visual attention, and actively participates in program activities.
- Follows YMCA policies, emergency procedures, and mandated reporting/abuse-prevention protocols; supports staff in consistently applying child safety expectations (including the rule of three).
- Oversees site environment and equipment readiness; supports upkeep, organization, and safe, healthy program spaces.
- Serves as an ambassador for YMCA programs and member engagement; participates in required meetings, trainings, and Association initiatives.
- Must be at least 20 years old and meet the CT Office of Early Childhood requirements for Head Teacher for school age programs.
- Must meet one of the following pathways (per OEC):- High school diploma/equivalent and at least 540 hours of documented supervised experience over a nine-month period with school-age children and 12 college credits in a related field; or
- Bachelor’s degree in childhood education or child development and at least 270 hours of documented supervised experience with unrelated school-age children.
- Demonstrated ability to plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities; strong customer service, problem-solving, and team leadership skills.
- Must be observant, safety-conscious, and able to respond calmly and quickly in emergencies.
- Documentation of physical exam and TB testing required at hire and repeated per requirements (typically every two years).
- Must complete OEC background check and fingerprinting within required timelines.
- CT Child Care CPR/First Aid certification within six (6) months of employment (and maintained).
- Administration of Medications certification preferred; ongoing professional development per licensing requirements.
