Early Learning Director and Lead Teacher
Healthy Kids Programs is seeking a passionate and organized early childhood professional to join our team as an Early Learning Director / Lead Teacher for our Early Learning Program in Monticello, NY. In this role, you’ll combine leadership and teaching, helping guide a high-quality early childhood program while supporting children’s development through engaging learning experiences.
About the role
If you enjoy mentoring staff, partnering with families, and creating a nurturing classroom environment, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career with one of the fastest-growing childcare organizations in the country.
Location
Monticello, NY
Responsibilities
- Ensure staff and program operations consistently meet state regulations, Healthy Kids policies, and host school requirements.
- Plan and lead engaging, hands-on activities aligned with the Healthy Kids Curriculum, including fitness, STEAM, academics, arts, and homework support.
- Oversee daily operational tasks such as accurate attendance and registration tracking, scheduling, and maintaining appropriate staffing levels.
- Maintain clear and consistent communication with parents and caregivers using the Playground App.
- Communicate regularly with your direct report to share updates, address concerns, and support a positive team environment. Together, you will ensure high-quality care, strong staff morale, and proactive problem-solving.
Requirements
Education and Experience: Candidates must meet one of the following:
- A Bachelor’s degree with at least 12 credits in early childhood education, child development, or a related field, plus one year of full-time teaching experience and one year of staff supervision experience in an early childhood setting.
- An Associate’s degree in early childhood education or a related field with a plan of study toward a Bachelor’s degree or a New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential, plus two years of full-time teaching experience and two years of staff supervision experience.
- A New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential with one year of full-time teaching experience and one year of staff supervision experience.
- A Child Development Associate (CDA) or other office-recognized credential, with a plan of study toward a Bachelor’s degree or a New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential, plus two years of full-time teaching experience and two years of staff supervision experience.
Qualifications
- Must be willing and able to pass NYS OCFS background check.
- Medically cleared to perform all job duties.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Friendly, professional, reliable, and team-oriented.
- Able to meet physical demands of the role, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
- Able to lead and motivate a team and have a commitment to providing quality childcare.
Pay
$17.00 – $20.00 per hour
Schedule
Hours will vary between 6:30 AM and 6:30 PM
Benefits
- Employer-paid childcare for children enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you are working with us.
- Telehealth, vision, and dental coverage.
- AFLAC supplemental plans.
- 401(k) for eligible employees.
- Paid sick time.
- On-demand pay.
- Professional development and career growth opportunities.
About Healthy Kids Programs
Healthy Kids Programs is more than a childcare provider—we’re helping shape the future of childcare. As one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing organizations, we operate Early Learning, Before & After School, and Summer Camp programs in 150+ locations nationwide. As a certified Benefit Corporation, our mission is to make high-quality childcare accessible, affordable, and impactful for families and communities.
At Healthy Kids Programs, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We foster supportive environments where team members feel valued, empowered, and inspired to grow. If you’re passionate about early childhood education and want to make a meaningful impact in children’s lives, we’d love to meet you.