Lead Teacher (Full-Time), Speer YMCA Preschool Academy

Job Title: Lead Teacher (Full-Time), Speer YMCA Preschool Academy

Description: We're excited to announce the grand opening of our renovated facility in South St. Pete, featuring two new infant rooms and two new toddler rooms in March 2026! This is your chance to be part of something new and vital where you can make a lasting impact on the lives of young children and their families. At the YMCA Preschool Academies, we are committed to creating a nurturing environment where children and staff thrive. As a Lead Teacher, you'll play a vital role in shaping the educational and emotional growth of children ages birth to five. If you're passionate about early childhood education and love inspiring young learners, we want to hear from you!

Duties:

• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans aligned with child outcomes and program goals.
• Foster social, emotional, and cognitive development through age-appropriate activities.
• Create a safe, nurturing classroom environment and maintain compliance with state licensing requirements.
• Observe, assess, and document each child's growth and development.
• Build strong relationships with families through daily communication and scheduled conferences.
• Collaborate with your classroom team to ensure a positive learning experience.
• Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and safety standards.

Requirements:

• Education: Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, or Early Childhood Special Education (Bachelor's Degree Preferred)
• Experience: 2–3 years working with children ages birth–5 in an early childhood setting.
• Completion of MODS (Introductory Child Care Training, Part 1 & 2) required.
• Knowledge of inquiry-based learning and positive behavior support strategies preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead and collaborate effectively.
• Comfortable with technology (MS Office Suite) or willing to learn.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and engage physically with children.
• Pass a 10-panel drug screen.
• Clear a Level 2 background check*

Perks & Pay: Full-Time, $16.00 - $21.00/hour, based on experience. Health insurance & paid time off. 75% discount on preschool tuition. Free before/after school care for school-age kids. Household access to YMCA wellness centers. Employer-paid retirement fund.

Work Location: Speer YMCA Preschool Academy - 2100 26th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712

*Level 2 background clearance through DCF (Florida) required. Check out this link for more information: https://info.flclearinghouse.com