Lead Teacher

Starting Pay: $18.68/hour DOE

Full-Time | Monday–Friday

8-hour shifts scheduled between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Lead Learning. Inspire Growth. Make an Impact.

The YMCA of the Black Hills is seeking passionate and dedicated Preschool Room Lead Teachers to join our Early Learning team. This role is ideal for an experienced early childhood professional who is committed to creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. We have opportunities to work across various age groups, with classrooms ranging from infants, toddlers, and preschool age kiddos.

As a Lead Teacher, you'll play a key role in shaping meaningful early learning experiences through hands-on teaching, curriculum development, staff leadership, and strong family partnerships. At the Y, we believe every child deserves a nurturing environment that supports academic, social, emotional, and physical development - and our teachers make that possible every day.

What You'll Do

Classroom Leadership & Curriculum

• Create and implement age-appropriate, mission-driven lesson plans and classroom activities
• Foster children's academic, social, emotional, and physical development
• Maintain a positive, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment
• Evaluate curriculum effectiveness and ensure portfolio and assessment deadlines are met
• Utilize YMCA Social and Emotional Curriculum and Conscious Discipline practices

Staff Support & Team Development

• Train, mentor, and support early learning staff
• Conduct formal and informal staff evaluations and provide ongoing coaching
• Help team members achieve performance goals and maintain classroom quality standards
• Participate in regular team meetings and collaborative planning

Child Safety & Classroom Operations

• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of every child in your care
• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment
• Monitor classroom supplies, materials, and equipment usage
• Follow all YMCA safety procedures and state childcare licensing regulations
• Complete accurate attendance, meal count, and incident documentation

Family Engagement & Communication

• Build positive and professional relationships with families
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding child development and classroom updates
• Distribute newsletters and provide daily updates through the ProCare Engage App
• Create a welcoming environment where families feel informed and supported

Qualifications

• Passion for early childhood education and child development
• Previous childcare or preschool teaching experience preferred
• Child Development Associate credential required
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with children, families, and team members
• Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate classroom practices
• Ability to maintain a safe, active, and engaging classroom environment
• CPR/First Aid certification required or ability to obtain within required timeframe
• Must meet South Dakota childcare licensing requirements

Why Join the YMCA of the Black Hills?

At the YMCA, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our Early Learning staff make a lasting impact by helping children build confidence, curiosity, independence, and lifelong learning skills.

As a Preschool Room Lead Teacher, you'll have the opportunity to lead with purpose, support families, mentor staff, and create meaningful experiences that help children thrive every day.

If you're ready to inspire young learners and make a difference in your community, apply today to join the YMCA of the Black Hills!