Description

The Early Childhood Education Teacher (ECE TCR) is responsible for creating and delivering developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of young children. This role maintains a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment, partners with families to support children’s learning and development, and models the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. The ECE TCR actively supervises children, engages in program activities, monitors progress, and communicates effectively with parents, colleagues, and supervisors.

Essential Functions:

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

• Plan, implement, and assess developmentally appropriate lessons and activities.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom and ensure proper supervision of children at all times.

• Model YMCA core values in interactions with children, families, staff, and volunteers.

• Build strong partnerships with families and keep them informed of children’s progress and needs.

• Prepare children for learning through exploration, play, and structured activities, while monitoring for emotional or developmental concerns.

• Assist children individually or in small groups to reinforce learning outcomes.

• Develop daily schedules and routines to balance learning, physical activity, rest, and play.

• Follow all YMCA policies, procedures, and licensing requirements, including health, safety, emergency, and child abuse prevention protocols.

• Serve as an ambassador for YMCA programs, fostering engagement and loyalty among participants and families.

• Attend mandatory meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.

Requirements

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• Bachelors Degree or higher degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a related major (Child Development, Elementary Education, Early Childhood Special Education).

• Transcript reflecting an earned BA or higher degree in ECE or related major; OR diploma reflecting that a BA or higher degree was completed and lists the ECE or related major.

• ECTC credential awarded at two levels: Associate's Degree level with an endorsement(s) Infant/Toddler/Preschool, or Bachelor's Degree level with an endorsement(s) Infant/Toddler/Preschool.

• Experience working with children preferred.

• Upon hire, must have documentation of a physical examination and a TB Tine Test, to be repeated every two years.

• Must submit Office of Early Childhood Background Check and fingerprinting forms within 30 days of hire.

• Effective communication skills necessary to inform, counsel, motivate, and support members.

• Must be observant, safety-conscious, and able to react calmly and quickly in an emergency; adaptable and flexible to program needs.

• Possesses strong organizational skills.

• Remains calm and objective when under pressure, when challenged by others, or when working with children displaying challenging behaviors.

Summary

The ECE Teacher plans and delivers developmentally appropriate curriculum and assessments while creating a safe, nurturing classroom for preschool-aged children (3–5). The role supports children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development, ensures compliance with Connecticut OEC licensing and QSM standards, and builds strong partnerships with families in alignment with YMCA values.

We’re hiring a part-time Preschool Teacher in Fairfield (9 AM–1 PM, with optional hours until 4 PM). The role runs September–June, with the option to continue into Summer Camp for year-round work. Our schedule follows the Fairfield Public School calendar, offering consistent hours and built-in breaks.

Apply today to join a supportive team and make a lasting impact on young learners!