Lead Educator – Kindergarten / 1st Grade (Afterschool Program)

About Us

Latona School Associates (LSA) is a mission-driven, community-focused afterschool program committed to excellence in youth development. We provide a structured, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports academic enrichment, creativity, and social-emotional growth. Our program emphasizes high standards of care, intentional instruction, and collaborative teamwork.

Position Summary

The Lead Educator & Program Coordinator for the Kindergarten/1st Grade group serves as the instructional and operational leader for the classroom. This role is responsible for designing and executing curriculum-aligned enrichment activities, maintaining regulatory compliance, and providing direct supervision and mentorship to assistant teachers. The Lead Educator ensures a high-quality learning environment that meets program objectives, family expectations, and state licensing standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and assess structured, developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with early learning and elementary education best practices.
• Lead and supervise daily classroom operations, ensuring student safety, engagement, and accountability at all times.
• Provide instructional leadership and on-site supervision for assistant teachers, including coaching, task delegation, and performance feedback.
• Implement proactive classroom management strategies that support positive behavior, inclusion, and emotional regulation.
• Monitor and document student attendance, behavior, incidents, and progress in accordance with program and licensing requirements.
• Maintain compliance with state childcare licensing regulations, health and safety protocols, and organizational policies.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for families, conducting professional communication regarding student progress, behavior, and program expectations.
• Collaborate with site leadership and administrative staff to support program planning, scheduling, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support emergency preparedness, risk management, and incident response procedures.
• Contribute to staff training, onboarding, and program development initiatives as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2–4 years of direct experience working with children ages 5–7 in a licensed childcare, school-based, or afterschool program.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including supervision or mentorship of staff.
• Advanced classroom management, organizational, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with families and colleagues.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to start date).
• Comprehensive understanding of child development, safety standards, and licensing compliance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in curriculum development or program coordination.
• Familiarity with state childcare licensing and quality rating systems.
• Training in social-emotional learning (SEL), trauma-informed care, or positive behavior interventions.
• Ability to lead in a fast-paced, structured afterschool environment.

Schedule & Compensation

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, approximately 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (school days).
• Pay Rate: $24–$32 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Additional hours available during school breaks, professional development days, and summer programming.

Benefits

• Paid training and advanced professional development opportunities.
• Leadership experience within a high-quality, licensed afterschool program.
• Collaborative, professional team culture.
• Opportunities for career advancement within Latona School Associates.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Latona School Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $26.00 - $28.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person