Early Learning Director and Lead Teacher

Healthy Kids Programs • Middletown, NY

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Healthy Kids Programs is seeking a hands-on Early Learning Director and Lead Teacher to support and lead the Preschool classroom at its Early Learning Center in Monticello, New York. This is primarily a classroom-based position: approximately 80–90% of the day is spent working directly with children in ratio as the Lead Teacher. Administrative and leadership responsibilities take place in shorter blocks throughout the day or outside direct classroom time. 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 position is part-time and non-exempt, with approximately 25–30 hours per week scheduled within the center’s operating hours of 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Pay is $17.00–$20.00 per hour. Healthy Kids Programs provides employer-paid childcare for employees’ school-age children ages 5–12 enrolled in its program on the days and during the hours they work.

Healthy Kids Programs provides Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs at more than 150 locations. It describes itself as a certified Benefit Corporation and an Inc. 5000 fast-growing organization, with a mission to make childcare accessible and affordable while creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and team members. The organization is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Requirements

• Meet one of the following education and experience pathways: a bachelor’s degree with at least 12 credits in early childhood, child development, or a related field, plus 1 year of teaching and 1 year of supervisory experience; a NYS Children’s Program Administrator Credential plus 1 year of teaching and 1 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 2 years of teaching and 2 years of supervisory experience; or a CDA or OCFS-recognized credential with a plan of study, plus 2 years of teaching and 2 years of supervisory experience.
• Must be medically cleared to perform all job duties and free of communicable diseases, including tuberculosis (TB).
• Demonstrate a positive, friendly demeanor and strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with children, parents, and team members.
• Be dependable, punctual, and professional in conduct and appearance.
• Be able to bend, stretch, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds and meet the physical demands of working with children.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Lead Teacher in the Preschool classroom and work directly with children for most 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 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.

Benefits

• Employer-paid childcare for school-age children ages 5–12 enrolled in the program on the days and during the hours the employee works.
• Telehealth coverage.
• Vision coverage.
• Dental coverage.
• AFLAC supplemental plans.
• 401(k) for eligible employees.
• Paid sick time.
• On-demand pay, providing access to earned wages before the scheduled payday.
• Career development and growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Associate degree