The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking an *Early Learning Assistant Teacher *to join our team.

The YMCA focuses on empowering people in all forms, by improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across our neighborhoods.

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.  

As the Early Learning Assistant Teacher, you will support the Lead Teacher at the YMCA Early Learning Center (ELC) year-round to serve our community with a variety of activity options to explore and develop the interests and talents of the youth so that children have fun, grow and thrive in our care. You will help in providing balanced recreation, education, and character development through enriched activities.

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*Key Responsibilities: *

• Support and participate in ongoing recruitment efforts to ensure full enrollment.
• Participate in planning the educational programs curriculum, and assist with the implementation of the daily classroom curriculum.
• Prepare and organize the classroom and classroom materials in accordance with the planned classroom curriculum.
• Plan and carry out educational planning meetings with families.
• Complete daily attendance/meal count and/or snack production record.
• Assist with record keeping on individual children and families as directed by Early Learning Center Director.
• Complete written observations of individual children throughout the year. Develop a learning plan for each child within 90 days of school entry.
• Prepare and serve snacks and meals; participate in and facilitate mealtime service and join children at the table for support and conversation.

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Are you a good fit?

• You are at least 18 years old and have a High School Diploma or GED.
• You have at least one year of experience working in an Early Learning setting.
• Have or are willing to obtain an Early Childhood Education Initial Certificate.
• You enjoy working with children and diverse populations.
• You are able to lead a large group using behavior management skills.
• You have or commit to obtaining CPR, Basic First Aid, Food Handlers, TB test, Child Care Basic STARS, proof of MMR vaccine, and a Merit account.
• Able up to lift 50 lbs. and move quickly to engage with the children.
• You are able to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on your first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
• Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
• You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.

Wage: $17.50 to $19.50 per hour, depending on qualifications 

Hours: Full-Time 40 hour a week 

*Location: *YMCA University Place Early Learning Center, Tacoma, WA  

*Benefits: *

Medical, Dental, and Vision benefit plan options

YMCA paid Life and Long-term Disability Insurance

Opportunity to participate in the YMCA 403(b) retirement saving plan. After 2 years of Full-Time employment, the YMCA will contribute 8% of your monthly earnings

Accrual of 15 days of paid vacation (vacation accruals increase with years of service)

8 paid Holidays/Floating Holidays per year

Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for eve