Overview

Position Title: UPK Lead TeacherPerformance Profile: Front LineDepartment: Universal PrekindergartenWork Location: Varies- Albany City School DistrictReports to: UPK DirectorSalary Range: Starting from $18.75/hourHours & Schedule: Monday - Friday, 40 hours/weekClassification: Full-Time Non-ExemptFull-Time Benefits: Paid school holidays and breaks, sick leave, 401(k) w/match, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, New York Paid Family Leave benefits, retirement benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.Note: This is a 10-month position (August 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the City School District of Albany (CSDA).Organizational ValuesAt the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area (BGCCA), you'll find more than just a job. You'll be part of our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Our team collaborates to ensure that youth in the Capital Area have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in today's fast-paced environment.Overview of Your RoleThe primary function of the UPK Lead Teacher will be to play a vital role in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years old in accordance with the approved CSDA curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives. Your focus will be on creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment that fosters academic and social-emotional achievement in conjunction with the second-step curriculum. The classroom configuration consists of 18 students, one teacher, and one teacher's assistant.Key Job Responsibilities:The following non-exhaustive list of job duties required for this position:Leadership & SupervisionCollaborate effectively with the Teaching Assistant to implement planned lessons, ensuring a safe and positive classroom environment.Provide clear guidance and direction to the Teaching Assistant regarding daily tasks and responsibilities.Conduct regular evaluations of the Teaching Assistant's performance and provide constructive feedback.Offer mentorship and coaching to support the professional growth of the Teaching Assistant.Foster a collaborative and supportive team dynamic within the classroom.PlanningDevelop comprehensive and engaging weekly lesson plans that align with the approved curriculum and meet individual student needs.Incorporate a variety of teaching methods and materials to accommodate different learning styles.Design age-appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.Collaborate with the Teaching Assistant to prepare and organize all necessary materials for daily activities.Utilize curriculum resources, such as Learning Without Tears and 2nd Step, to provide a well-rounded educational experience.Adapt lesson plans as needed based on ongoing assessment of student progress and interests.Education DeliveryImplement innovative and hands-on classroom activities that align with predetermined units of study.Create a stimulating learning environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving.Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of all students, including those with special needs or advanced abilitiesFacilitate both small group and whole class learning experiencesIntegrate technology appropriately to enhance learning experiences.Provide opportunities for student-led activities and exploration.Assessment and ReportingConduct ongoing assessments of student progress using various methods (e.g., observations, portfolios, developmental checklists)Provide timely and accurate progress reports, attendance records, and other required documentation.Complete progress monitoring reports, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about student progress, concerns, and achievements.Participate in parent-teacher conferences an