Early Learning Director and Lead Teacher

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionDescription: Location: Healthy Kids Programs Early Learning Center in Monticello, NYPay: $17.00 – $20.00 per hourSchedule: Approximately 25–30 hours per week, scheduled within center hours (6:30 AM – 6:30 PM) Job Type: Part-Time, Non-Exempt Featured Benefit: Employer-Paid ChildcareHealthy Kids Programs provides childcare for school-age children (ages 5–12) enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you work. Employer contributions cover the cost of care, so you can focus on your job while your child participates in a safe, structured, and engaging program, all without needing to arrange outside care. Job Summary 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 Monticello, 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 ResponsibilitiesClassroom Leadership (Primary Responsibility - In Ratio)Serve as Lead Teacher in the Preschool classroomWork directly with children throughout the majority of the dayPlan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons using Creative CurriculumPromote positive adult-child interactions using CLASS strategiesConduct ongoing child observations and developmental assessmentsMaintain a safe, nurturing classroom environment aligned with ECERS/ITERS standardsFamily & Community EngagementMaintain regular communication with families through conferences, meetings, and digital platformsParticipate in parent-teacher conferences twice per yearAssist with enrollment efforts, open houses, and community outreachProgram QualityUse ECERS, Creative Curriculum, and CLASS observations to support continuous improvementParticipate in professional development and training opportunitiesCenter Leadership & Administration (Limited Daily Time)Support daily center operations and schedulingEnsure compliance with NY State OCFS Day Care regulationsMaintain required student and program recordsSupport staff onboarding, training, and supervisionCoordinate classroom supplies and materialsCollaborate 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 experienceNYS Children’s Program Administrator Credential plus 1 year teaching and 1-year supervisory experienceAssociate’s degree in early childhood (or related field) with plan toward bachelor’s or administrator credential plus 2 years teaching and 2 years supervisory experienceCDA or OCFS-recognized credential with plan of study plus 2 years teaching and 2 years supervisory experienceQUALIFICATIONS:Must be medically cleared to perform all job duties and free of communicable diseases, including tuberculosis (TB).Demonstrates a positive, friendly demeanor with strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with children, parents, and team members.Dependable, punctual, and professional in conduct and appearance.Able to bend, stretch, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds, and meet the physical demands of working 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 usTelehealth, vision, and dental coverageAFLAC supplemental plans401(k) for eligible employeesPaid sick timeOn-demand pay – access earned wages before your scheduled payday for added financial flexibilityCareer development and growth opportunitiesAbout Healthy Kids Programs Healthy Kids Programs is more than a childcare provider—we're shaping the future of childcare. As one of Inc. 5000's fastest-growing organizations, we provide Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs at more than 150 locations. As a certified Benefit Corporation, our mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable while creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and our team members. Learn more about our team and culture: Healthy Kids Programs is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic. Hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs.