Early Childhood Learning Director & Lead Teacher

Early Learning Director / Lead Teacher

Healthy Kids Programs is seeking a hands-on Early Learning Director / Lead Teacher to support and lead our Preschool classroom at our Early Learning Center in Poughkeepsie, NY.

This is primarily a classroom-based position. The majority of each day (approximately 80–90%) is spent in ratio working directly with children as the Lead Teacher in the Preschool classroom. Administrative and leadership responsibilities make up a smaller portion of the role and are completed in short blocks throughout the day or outside of direct classroom time.

This role is ideal for an experienced early childhood professional who enjoys teaching, leading by example in the classroom, and contributing to program quality in a supportive, team-based environment.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Leadership (Primary Responsibility - In Ratio)

• Serve as Lead Teacher in the Preschool classroom
• Work directly with children throughout the majority of the day
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons using Creative Curriculum
• Promote positive adult-child interactions using CLASS strategies
• Conduct ongoing child observations and developmental assessments
• Maintain a safe, nurturing classroom environment aligned with ECERS/ITERS standards

Family & Community Engagement

• Maintain regular communication with families through conferences, meetings, and digital platforms
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences twice per year
• Assist with enrollment efforts, open houses, and community outreach

Program Quality

• Use ECERS, Creative Curriculum, and CLASS observations to support continuous improvement
• Participate in professional development and training opportunities

Center Leadership & Administration (Limited Daily Time)

• Support daily center operations and scheduling
• Ensure compliance with NY State OCFS Day Care regulations
• Maintain required student and program records
• Support staff onboarding, training, and supervision
• Coordinate classroom supplies and materials
• Collaborate with HR, enrollment, and regional leadership teams

(Administrative responsibilities are completed in short daily blocks and do not replace primary classroom responsibilities.)

Requirements

Education & Experience (One of the following required):

• Bachelor's degree (12+ credits in early childhood, child development, or related field) plus 1 year teaching and 1 year supervisory experience
• NYS Children's Program Administrator Credential plus 1 year teaching and 1 year supervisory experience
• Associate's degree in early childhood (or related field) with plan toward bachelor's or administrator credential plus 2 years teaching and 2 years supervisory experience
• CDA or OCFS-recognized credential with plan of study plus 2 years teaching and 2 years supervisory experience

Additional Requirements

• Medically cleared to work in a childcare setting; free of communicable diseases including TB
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Dependable, professional, and able to work collaboratively with staff and families
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs. and actively engage with children

PART-TIME BENEFITS:

• Employer-paid childcare for school-age children (ages 5–12) enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you are working with us
• Telehealth, vision, and dental coverage
• AFLAC supplemental plans
• 401(k) for eligible employees
• Paid sick time
• On-demand pay
• Career development and growth opportunities

Healthy Kids Programs is more than a childcare provider. We're shaping the future of childcare. As one of Inc. 5,000's fastest-growing organizations, we offer Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs across more than 150 locations. As a certified benefit corporation, our mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable for today's families while positively impacting the communities we serve.

At Healthy Kids Programs, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We create supportive and engaging environments where team members feel valued, empowered, and excited to grow. When you join our award-winning team, you become part of a community that values purpose, professional development, and meaningful work. If you are passionate about working with children and making a difference, Healthy Kids Programs is the place to build your career.