Pre-K Lead Teacher (Certified) at Union Settlement

Organizational Summary 

Union Settlement is an East Harlem based nonprofit organization founded in 1895. For 128 years, Union Settlement has provided critical and innovative programming to children, youth, families, and older adults. As a pioneer of the settlement house movement, Union Settlement continues to meet the needs of the ever-changing East Harlem community through its core programs. Through these programs, New Yorkers gain opportunities, develop skills, and become empowered to pursue and achieve their dreams.

Today, Union Settlement provides services through 33 program sites in approximately 28 locations. Union Settlement’s current programmatic portfolio includes 8 core program areas: Early Childhood Education, Youth Services (including after school programs), Family Services (including the Family Enrichment Center and the Family Childcare Network), the East Harlem Community Partnership, Adult Education, Mental Health Services, Older Adult Centers, and Economic Development.  Union Settlement serves more than 10,000 individuals and nearly 1,000 businesses every year.  

Strengthened by a dynamic, diverse, and collaborative workforce of more than 350 employees, Union Settlement also serves as a connector, convener, and advocate for East Harlem and its partners. To learn more about Union Settlement, visit www.unionsettlement.org . 

Job Title: Pre-K Lead Teacher 
Location: New York, NY 
Reports to: Education Director 
Position Type: Full-Time 
Exempt Status: Exempt 
Salary: $72,000 to $80,000 annually 

Job Summary: 

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Pre-K Lead Teacher to join our team at Union Settlement. The Pre-K Lead Teacher will be responsible for creating a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for young children. This role involves planning and implementing educational activities, assessing children's progress, and fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere for both students and their families. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Curriculum Planning: Develop and implement a creative and age-appropriate curriculum that meets the developmental needs and interests of pre-kindergarten students. Incorporate a variety of teaching methods and materials to promote learning and engagement. 

• Classroom Management: Create and maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment. Establish and enforce consistent rules and routines to support positive behavior and effective learning. 

• Individualized Instruction: Assess each child’s strengths and areas for growth. Provide individualized support and enrichment opportunities to meet diverse learning needs. 

• Assessment and Reporting: Regularly observe and assess children’s progress. Maintain accurate records of each child’s developmental milestones, learning progress, and behavioral observations. Prepare and communicate reports to parents and guardians. 

• Parental Communication: Build and maintain strong relationships with parents and guardians. Conduct parent-teacher conferences and provide regular updates on children’s progress and classroom activities. 

• Professional Development: Stay current with early childhood education best practices, trends, and research. Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities and collaborate with colleagues to enhance the educational program. 

• Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other teachers, assistants, and staff to support the overall goals of the preschool. Participate in staff meetings, planning sessions, and school events. 

• Health and Safety: Ensure the health and safety of all students by adhering to preschool policies and state regulations. Address any concerns related to children’s well-being promptly and appropriately. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field. 

• Valid state teaching certification or licensure (if applicable). 

• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with preschool-aged children in an educational setting. 

• Strong understanding of early childhood development and best practices in preschool education. 

• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and build positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues. 

• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain). 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience with Teaching Strategies Gold (Smart Teach), Creative Curriculum, Play-Based Learning. 

Benefits: 

• Competitive salary 

• Health, dental, and vision insurance 

• Retirement plan options 

• Paid time off and holidays 

• Professional development opportunities 

• Supportive and collaborative work environment 

CO R E CO M P E T E N C IE S 

• Leading Others: Creates a sense of urgency throughout the organization on the importance of achieving outcomes. Inspires, influences, and enables team members to reach their goals 

• Facilitating Change: Approaches challenges with creativity and flexibility. Demonstrates analytical thinking. Guides change to meet Union Settlement’s goals. 

• Managing Performance: Evaluates and revises goals semi-annually with the team. Provides consistent supervision and documents performance highlights and concerns 

• Applying and Developing Expertise: Embraces and leads the team to achieve milestones. Seeks and supports professional development opportunities for team members. Manages finances and budgets effectively 

• Communicating and Collaborating: Listens well and actively engages with others with honesty and integrity and holds team accountable to the same standard 

Union Settlement’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commitment  

Union Settlement is an equal opportunity employer. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.