Early Childhood Learning Director & Lead Teacher

Job Summary

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 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

• Maintain compliance with NY State OCFS Day Care regulations

• Support daily center operations and scheduling

• Ensure required student and program records are maintained

• Coordinate classroom supplies and materials

• Collaborate with HR, enrollment, and regional leadership teams

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 experience
  • NYS Children’s Program Administrator Credential plus 1 year teaching and 1 year supervisory experience
  • Associate’s degree in early childhood (or related field) with plan toward bachelor’s or administrator credential plus 2 years teaching and 2 years supervisory experience
  • CDA or OCFS-recognized credential with plan of study plus 2 years teaching and 2 years supervisory experience

• Additional Requirements:

  • Medically cleared to work in a childcare setting; free of communicable diseases including TB
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Dependable, professional, and able to work collaboratively with staff and families
  • Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs. and actively engage with children

About Healthy Kids Programs

Healthy Kids Programs is more than a childcare provider. We’re shaping the future of childcare. As one of Inc. 5,000’s fastest-growing organizations, we offer Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs across more than 150 locations. As a certified benefit corporation, our mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable for today’s families while positively impacting the communities we serve.

Why Join Healthy Kids Programs?

If you are passionate about working with children and making a difference, Healthy Kids Programs is the place to build your career. Learn more about working with us: https://www.healthykidsprograms.com/workwithus.

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.