Head teacher, pre-nursery

The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan seeks a part-time Head Teacher for our Turning 2s and Shabbat Together pre-nursery programs for 2-year-olds. The position is available from January 2027 to June 2027 and could continue throughout the summer. Turning 2s is designed to be a young child's first drop-off experience in a classroom setting. Our pre-nursery programs are play-based, open-ended classes that encourage exploration, growth, and discovery. We strive to create inclusive and engaging environments where children and families can become part of a community and develop lasting connections.

Together with our community, the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan creates a welcoming and vibrant environment where individuals from all walks of life come together to connect, grow, and learn. Rooted in Jewish values, it is a cornerstone of the Upper West Side that provides something for every stage of life through a multifaceted array of offerings, spanning comprehensive children's and family programs, cutting-edge health and wellness, thought-provoking arts and culture, and vital social services. It imagines Jewish life that is inclusive and diverse, creating a supportive space for people of all backgrounds to engage, nurture their well-being, and find a deep sense of belonging.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with co-teachers to maintain consistent, meaningful communication with families through reflective emails, classroom updates, posts, and other forms of engagement.
• Create and maintain an organized, inviting, and thoughtfully prepared classroom environment that supports children's independence, curiosity, and learning.
• Foster a safe, nurturing, and joyful classroom community that prioritizes each child's well-being, development, and individual growth.
• Design and implement innovative, open-ended, developmentally appropriate, and child-centered curriculum that encourages exploration, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences.
• Work collaboratively with the teaching team to plan, implement, and reflect on curriculum that supports children's interests, needs, and developmental goals.
• Bring a warm, kind, welcoming, and reflective approach to teaching, with a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
• Participate in dedicated team planning time, full-staff meetings, and ongoing professional development to strengthen teaching practices and foster a collaborative school community.
• Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with parents and caregivers through thoughtful communication, active listening, and a commitment to family partnership.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

REQUIREMENTS

• At least 3 years of experience in a classroom setting with two year-olds or an advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is required
• Knowledge of development and learning for children under 3.
• Proactive, open to learning and growing with mentoring from supervisors and co-teachers.
• Familiarity with Reggio Emilia, play-based and child-centered learning a plus.
• Knowledge of Shabbat, Jewish holidays, and values a plus.
• Certification in infant/child CPR and First Aid a plus.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Supportive, mission-driven work environment
• Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
• Access to all the JCC's cultural, learning, arts, and film programs
• Investment in professional development and leadership skills
• Free fitness membership for the pool and health club

WORK LOCATION

This role is in person at our community center on the Upper West Side.

COMPENSATION

This position offers a pay range of $35-$45 per hour, commensurate with experience.

The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, marital status and civil partnership/union status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, religion, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic predisposition or carrier status, or any other characteristic as established and protected by applicable federal, state or local law.