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 LeadershipCurriculum
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 SupportTeam 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 SafetyClassroom 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 EngagementCommunication
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!

Pay: $18.68 per hour