Group Leader

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