Group Leader

It is our mission to be the pillar of childcare in Schuyler County by providing children and families with quality care and educational experiences. A strong work force requires adequate child care opportunities in the community. We use a sliding fee tuition scale and accept child care subsidy so that all children have the same opportunity to quality care regardless of the family's financial status. We provide year round care to children ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We believe children learn best through play. Our teaching team assures children have a wide variety of activities to keep them engaged and discover more about themselves. We also embrace helping early childhood educators grow in their careers by providing field experiences to local schools, colleges and inclusive work force development programs.

Position: Group Leader– My Place After School Program

Position Summary:

At My Place: A Play and Learning Center, every team member plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives of the children we serve. Our mission is to provide a nurturing, engaging, and enriching environment where children thrive. We care for children from 6 weeks to 5 years old at our main center (7 AM – 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday) and operate an After School Program at Watkins Glen Elementary School for PreK and school-age children (2–6 PM, Monday through Friday).

As a Group Leader in the After School Program, you will guide young learners in fun, play-based, developmentally appropriate activities that foster creativity, skill-building, and social-emotional growth. With small class sizes and a collaborative environment, you’ll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on children during this critical stage of development.

What We Offer:

• Professional Growth: At least 15 hours of paid training annually, plus scholarship opportunities for degrees in Early Childhood Education.
• Supportive Environment: A team-oriented culture with continuous professional development to refine supervision skills and deepen understanding of child development.
• Work-Life Balance: Convenient schedules and opportunities to shape your career while doing meaningful work.

Education Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED

Qualifications:

• Minimum of one year of experience in early childhood care or education.
• Familiarity with NYS Child Day Care regulations (418.14 and related guidelines).
• Experience working with diverse populations and a commitment to inclusion.
• Strong understanding of developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum design.
• Exceptional customer service skills and ability to maintain a positive, professional demeanor.
• Reliable, detail-oriented, energetic, and ready to engage in play and learning.
• Physical capability to sit, stand, and lift up to 30 lbs. as needed.

Core Responsibilities:

Classroom Environment & Supervision:

• Foster a safe, nurturing, and welcoming space where children feel supported and inspired to learn.
• Engage children in activities that promote curiosity, creativity, and social development.
• Ensure competent supervision at all times, maintaining a high standard of safety and care.

Program Compliance:

• Adhere to all My Place policies and NYS Child Day Care regulations.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation as required.

Family & Community Engagement:

• Communicate effectively and professionally with families during drop-off, pick-up, and as needed.
• Build trusting relationships with parents to support their child’s development.
• Uphold confidentiality in accordance with My Place policies.

Professionalism & Growth:

• Develop and follow an annual professional development plan.
• Stay current with NYS-mandated training requirements and attend all scheduled staff meetings.
• Continuously enhance skills through professional development opportunities aligned with program needs.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Represent My Place positively in all interactions with families, staff, and the community.
• Answer phones, greet visitors, and provide excellent customer service.

Why Join Us?

My Place offers more than just a job – it’s a chance to shape young minds, build lasting connections, and grow your career in a supportive and rewarding environment. If you are passionate about early childhood education, value teamwork, and want to make a meaningful difference, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply today to join our dedicated team and help us create a brighter future for our community’s youngest learners.

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person