Early Childhood Learning Director & Lead Teacher

HEALTHY KIDS PROGRAMS•Town of Lloyd, NY

2d•$17 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Healthy Kids Programs is seeking a hands-on Early Learning Director / Lead Teacher to support and lead the Preschool classroom at its Early Learning Center in Poughkeepsie, New York. This is primarily a classroom-based position: approximately 80–90% of each day is spent working directly with children in ratio as the Lead Teacher. Administrative and leadership responsibilities are limited to short blocks during the day or time outside direct classroom duties. The role is intended for an experienced early childhood professional who enjoys teaching, leading by example, and contributing to program quality in a supportive, team-based environment. The schedule is approximately 25–30 hours per week, scheduled within center hours of 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The position is part-time and non-exempt, with pay of $17.00–$20.00 per hour. Healthy Kids Programs provides childcare for employees’ school-age children, ages 5–12, who are enrolled in its program on the days and during the hours the employee works. Employer contributions cover the cost of care. The organization operates Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs at more than 150 locations and describes itself as a certified benefit corporation focused on making childcare accessible and affordable while positively impacting communities.

Requirements

One of the following education and experience combinations is required: a bachelor’s degree with 12 or more credits in early childhood, child development, or a related field, plus one year of teaching and one year of supervisory experience; a NYS Children’s Program Administrator Credential plus one year of teaching and one year of supervisory experience; an associate’s degree in early childhood or a related field with a plan toward a bachelor’s degree or administrator credential, plus two years of teaching and two years of supervisory experience; or a CDA or OCFS-recognized credential with a plan of study, plus two years of teaching and two years of supervisory experience.
Must be medically cleared to work in a childcare setting and free of communicable diseases, including TB.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Dependable and professional, with the ability to work collaboratively with staff and families.
Physically able to lift up to 50 pounds and actively engage with children.

Responsibilities

Serve as Lead Teacher in the Preschool classroom and work directly with children for 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.
Communicate regularly 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.
Use ECERS, Creative Curriculum, and CLASS observations to support continuous improvement.
Participate in professional development and training opportunities.
Support daily center operations and scheduling.
Ensure compliance with New York 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.

Benefits

Employer-paid childcare for school-age children ages 5–12 enrolled in the program on the days and during the employee’s work hours.
Telehealth coverage.
Vision coverage.
Dental coverage.
AFLAC supplemental plans.
401(k) for eligible employees.
Paid sick time.
On-demand pay.
Career development and growth opportunities.

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