Preschool Teacher Assistant

Princeton YMCA is seeking a qualified Teacher Assistant who will assist the Head Teacher in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum. At the Y, our curriculum encourages learning through exploration and discovery, and promotes the development of a positive self-image. Our Teacher Assistants report to the Head Teacher and are responsible for assisting with Arts & Crafts projects, conducting “circle time”, helping during lunch/snacks and diapering/potty training (room specific). Our Teacher Assistants model positive social interactions and language, and implement positive class management techniques and strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the health, safety and well-being of children in the program, by providing close supervision of all activities.
• Assist Head Teacher in creating and leading developmentally appropriate lessons and activities.
• Work as a supportive team member.
• Maintain a clean and safe classroom environment, by reporting and / or removing all potential hazards and by setting up spaces and materials with a focus on supporting child learning.
• Maintain accurate program documentation including by not limited to incident, accident and behavior reports, attendance sheets, sign-in / sign-out sheets, development and growth forms; document eating and sleeping, as well as any areas of concern.
• Actively participate in all training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Other activities and duties as needed that address the ongoing health and well-being of our staff and members.
• Follow and maintain sanitary habits in accordance with CDC guidelines.
• Attends trainings, seminars and meetings as required by the YMCA and Princeton Public Schools. Maintain professional development record on NJCCIS.
• Build positive relationship with Princeton Public Schools personnel, accepting coaching in relation to curriculum and state guidelines and expectations.

Desired Skills & Experience:

• High School diploma
• Minimum of one year of experience working with young children in a group setting.
• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.

Benefits of working part-time at GSCY include:

• FREE Individual Membership Access to any YMCA in the Nation.
• 10% Discount on most programming at Greater Somerset County YMCA.
• Access to one of the leading retirement programs "Y Retirement Fund" from the first day of employment.
• Opportunities for professional development, mentoring, growth, and promotion throughout the YMCA Movement.
• Supportive and inclusive community for people of all backgrounds and access to Employee Resource Networks.

Greater Somerset County YMCA is a drug free work environment. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information who share our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.