Early Learning Director and Lead Teacher

HEALTHY KIDS PROGRAMS • City of Middletown, NY

2d • $17 - $20 • 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, NY. 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 duties are handled in shorter blocks throughout the day or outside direct classroom time.

The role involves planning and delivering developmentally appropriate instruction, maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment, engaging with families, supporting program quality and regulatory compliance, and assisting with center operations and staff support. The position is part-time, non-exempt, approximately 25–30 hours per week, scheduled within center hours of 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Pay is $17.00–$20.00 per hour.

Healthy Kids Programs provides childcare for school-age children ages 5–12 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 and creating opportunities for children, families, and team members.

Requirements

• Meet one of the following education and experience pathways: 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; or CDA or OCFS-recognized credential with a plan of study, plus 2 years of teaching and 2 years of supervisory experience.
• 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 and punctual, with professional 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.
• 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.
• 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 employee’s working days and hours.
• Telehealth, vision, and 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