TK After School Associate Teacher

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community.

At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation’s most pressing social issues.

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco , we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs.

Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals.

The TK After School Associate Teacher is part of a team that provides a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for all children enrolled in the program. The Associate Teacher supports the Lead Teachers and helps maintain positive, respectful relationships with families served by the YMCA Preschool.

This role requires modeling appropriate behavior, maintaining a collaborative and professional attitude. The TK Associate Teacher is expected to maintain a professional and supportive attitude, model positive behavior, and adhere to all guidelines established by Community Care Licensing, as well as directions provided by the Lead Teacher and Site Director.

• Plan and lead age-appropriate lessons and activities.
• Teach in a TK after school classroom for ages 3.5–5.
• Support a Chinese or Spanish immersion curriculum.
• Complete child observations and required documentation to inform curriculum planning.
• Assist with classroom setup, cleanup, and overall daily management.
• Maintain active supervision and create a positive, structured learning environment using developmentally appropriate guidance.
• Keep indoor and outdoor learning spaces clean, safe, and organized.
• Collaborate with teachers, aides, and volunteers; fully participate in daily activities.
• Communicate regularly with staff and families about child behavior, incidents, and program updates.
• Report to the Lead Teacher and communicate with site leadership as needed.

Family Engagement

• Support family orientations and maintain positive relationships with families.

Professional Expectations

• Attend required trainings and meetings; complete all onboarding, compliance, and safety trainings.
• Follow YMCA policies, safety procedures, and mandated reporting requirements.
• Apply professional development learnings in the classroom.
• Model the YMCA core values of caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility.
• Demonstrate growth in leadership, teamwork, and advancing the YMCA mission.
• Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

• 18 years or older
• Associate Teacher Permit or higher (12+ ECE units and 16 GE units)
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills in English
• Available Monday–Friday, up to 8 hours/day (year-round program)
• 350+ days of childcare experience (3+ hours/day within 4 years)
• CPR/First Aid certified (or willing to complete upon hire)
• Health screening and TB clearance (prior to hire and every 2 years)
• Proof of immunizations: influenza, pertussis, and measles
• Fingerprint clearance through Community Care Licensing

• Bilingual in Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, or other languages commonly spoken in the community (preferred)
• Associate Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
• Familiarity with DRDP, NAEYC standards, PITC, anti-bias curriculum, emergent curriculum, and Reggio Emilia approach

This position requires frequent standing, walking,…