Early Learning Center Program Aide - Rockbridge YMCA

The Preschool Program Aide is responsible for providing leadership, guidance, effective communication and maintaining the overall well being and safety of Early Learning Center children. They must possess high energy, enthusiasm, genuinely enjoy working with children, and be team oriented. The Preschool Program Aide is responsible for assisting the Preschool Lead Teacher in the planning, implementation, and facilitation of a structured daily schedule. The Preschool Program Aide must be positive, with a patient and respectful demeanor towards children, parents, coworkers, and administration. All staff are expected to be interactive and engaging with the children throughout the day. This includes standing for long periods and participating in physical activities both indoors and outdoors.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Supervises a group of children alongside the Lead Teacher, being responsible for their overall health and well being. Provides careful, attentive supervision; alert at all times.
2. Take group attendance daily.
3. Maintains camp site and equipment daily.
4. Implements program activities that are engaging, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values.
5. Adheres to program standards regarding  safety, cleanliness, and adherence to licensing  protocol.
6. Attends trainings and staff meetings with summer camp leadership.
7. Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical emergencies, behavior policy implementation, child abuse prevention and all other emergency situations.
8. Cultivates positive relationships and maintains effective communication with parents, children and other staff. Models relationship-building skills in all interactions.
9. Maintains ongoing communication with the Lead Preschool teacher.
10. Sets up for and cleans up after all camp activities.
11. Performs other duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Team Leader):

Mission Advancement: Models and teaches the Y’s values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. 

Collaboration: Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives.  Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict. Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience.

Personal Growth: Shares new insights. Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change. Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must be at least 16 years of age or older.
2. Six months of programmatic experience with children, preferably in a camp setting is preferred.
3. Must complete 24 hours of training to meet the licensing standards of a licensed child day center.
4. Preferred CPR/First-Aid. If not certified, will receive training through the YMCA.
5. Exceptional group management, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
6. Experience in creating, planning, and facilitating interactive and educational/artistic activities relating to  youth development, physical fitness, and academic enrichment is preferred.
7. Must possess speaking, listening and writing skills appropriate for interacting with both children and adults.
8. Must be capable of implementing directives related to the daily program.
9. Must have flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
10. Demonstrate a working knowledge of YMCA mission, purpose and goals, childcare policies and YMCA standards; ensures the program meets the highest standards of excellence.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1.  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
2.  Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions of position and to supervise as well as participate in program activities.

The YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a Drug Free Workplace and is committed to the policy of Equal Opportunity prohibiting discrimination in employment because of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

If you value a culture of excellence, transparency, servant leadership, and accountability, please apply at ymcavbr.org.