Early Learning Director and Lead Teacher

Healthy Kids Programs • Bethel, NY

7d • 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 Monticello, NY. This is primarily a classroom-based, part-time role. Approximately 80–90% of each day is spent working directly with children in ratio as the Preschool Lead Teacher. Administrative and leadership duties are handled in short blocks during the day or outside direct classroom time. The role suits 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 within center hours of 6:30 AM–6:30 PM. The position is non-exempt and pays $17.00–$20.00 per hour. Healthy Kids Programs provides employer-paid childcare for school-age children ages 5–12 who are enrolled in its program on the days and during the hours the employee works.

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 focused on making childcare accessible and affordable while creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and team members. The organization states that it is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Requirements

• One of the following education and experience pathways is required: Bachelor’s degree with 12 or more credits in early childhood, child development, or a related field, plus 1 year of teaching and 1 year of supervisory experience.
• NYS Children’s Program Administrator Credential, plus 1 year of teaching and 1 year of supervisory experience.
• 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.
• 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.
• Positive, friendly demeanor and 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.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Lead Teacher in the Preschool classroom and work directly with children during 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 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 program 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 enrolled school-age children ages 5–12 during the employee’s working days and hours.
• Telehealth coverage.
• Vision coverage.
• Dental coverage.
• AFLAC supplemental plans.
• 401(k) for eligible employees.
• Paid sick time.
• On-demand pay with 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