Lead 3K/PreK Afterschool Teacher

The Art Farm NYC
Pay: $20.00–$25.00 per hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday, generally 2:00 PM–6:00 PM
Schedule Flexibility: Some days may have shorter hours, approximately 2:00 PM–4:30 PM, based on student schedules and program needs.
Minimum Commitment: 2 days per week; additional days preferred.

About the Role

The Art Farm NYC is looking for a Lead 3K/PreK Afterschool Teacher to provide a safe, nurturing, creative, and engaging afterschool experience for children ages 3–4.

The ideal person will have experience working with young children and understand the unique needs of early childhood learners. This position will lead classroom activities, support children's social and emotional development, maintain a positive classroom environment, and work closely with Assistant Teachers and the Director to ensure a high-quality program.

We are especially interested in applicants with an educational background in Education, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field, as well as those currently pursuing a related degree.

What You'll Do

• Lead engaging, age-appropriate activities including art, science, sensory activities, group games, storytime, and other hands-on experiences.
• Follow schedules, lesson plans, and program guidance provided by the Director.
• Provide active and attentive supervision of children ages 3–4 while prioritizing their safety, care, and well-being.
• Create a warm, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment where children feel comfortable learning and participating.
• Support children's social, emotional, and developmental growth through positive interactions and age-appropriate guidance.
• Use positive and developmentally appropriate behavior-management techniques.
• Maintain a clean, organized classroom and ensure children's belongings are properly managed.
• Delegate appropriate tasks and responsibilities to Assistant Teachers.
• Collaborate with co-teachers and the Director regarding student behavior, developmental needs, or other concerns.
• Maintain accurate attendance records, rosters, and other required daily or weekly paperwork.
• Communicate roster discrepancies or classroom concerns to the Director.
• Help ensure activities and programming are creative, engaging, challenging, safe, and appropriate for children with varying abilities.
• Build positive relationships with students and families and provide friendly, professional customer service.
• Promote positive staff and student morale and contribute to a supportive team environment.
• Recognize and respond appropriately to emergencies.
• Report medical incidents and other significant concerns to the Director.
• Work with the Director to make appropriate adjustments to programming or staffing to support smooth daily operations.
• Maintain a professional appearance and represent The Art Farm NYC positively in the community.
• Take on other responsibilities as assigned by the Director.

What We're Looking For

• Experience working with children ages 3–4 is strongly preferred.
• Experience in an early childhood, preschool, Pre-K, childcare, camp, classroom, or similar setting is preferred.
• A completed degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field is strongly preferred.
• Candidates currently pursuing a degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field are encouraged to apply.
• Strong communication and classroom-management skills.
• Ability to create and lead developmentally appropriate activities.
• Patient, nurturing, dependable, and enthusiastic approach to working with young children.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, Assistant Teachers, Directors, students, and families.
• Ability to respond calmly and appropriately to challenging situations and emergencies.
• Reliable and able to commit to at least 2 days per week.

Education & Lead Teacher Qualifications

A completed or in-progress degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field is strongly preferred for this position.

Relevant early childhood education, classroom, childcare, and/or teaching experience will also be considered.

Lead-teacher assignments are made based on applicable licensing requirements, qualifications, education, experience, and program needs.

Why Join The Art Farm NYC?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact during an important stage of children's development while working in a creative, hands-on environment. You'll have the opportunity to help young children explore, learn, build confidence, and develop positive relationships with their peers and teachers.

If you're passionate about early childhood education and love creating fun, engaging experiences for young children, we'd love to hear from you!