Child Care Lead

The Bethlehem Area School District Child Care Center is looking for two dependable, caring, and organized Child Care Leads to support daily center operations and help provide a safe, positive, and engaging environment for children. The ideal candidate works well with children, families, and staff; communicates effectively; and is able to work independently while supporting the needs of the center.

These year-round, benefits-eligible positions work Monday through Friday, 5.5 hours per day. During the school year, the positions follows a split-shift schedule, approximately 6:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. During the summer months, the positions follow a single-shift schedule.

Responsibilities:

• Observe the classroom and ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times
• Prepare the classroom, space, and materials for daily activities and clean up at the end of the day
• Help children develop good mealtime habits and appropriate communication skills
• Supervise small-group activities
• Assist children with hygiene activities, including hand-washing and toileting as needed
• Prepare classroom activities under the guidance of the Center Supervisor
• Participate in classroom planning, implementation, and documentation as requested
• Help children choose, complete, and transition between activities in all classroom learning areas
• Use positive reinforcement through language, attitude, and modeling of appropriate behavior
• Coordinate daily activities and supervise aides in the absence of the Center Supervisor
• Assist with administrative duties, including recording fees, attendance, and other records as requested
• Maintain frequent communication with parents, in consultation with the Center Supervisor, regarding their child's progress
• Participate in Keystone STARS activities and requirements
• Communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively, both orally and in writing, with professional staff, support staff, students, and parents
• Provide backup support to other staff members as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED, plus one of the following:
  • Fifteen (15) college credits in early childhood development, special education, elementary education, or a related human services field and one (1) year of relevant experience;
  • or High school diploma or equivalent and two (2) years of relevant experience in the care and development of children
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively with children, families, and staff
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Ability to learn and efficiently use Google Drive and other technology as needed

Benefits:

Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and prescription coverage � employee contribution of just $22 per pay for single coverage or $34 per pay for family coverage for the 2026�2027 school year (26 pays per year)
• $10,000 employer-paid term life insurance
• 10 paid vacation days per year
• 10 paid holidays per year
• 12 paid sick days per year
• PSERS retirement benefits
• Paid personal and emergency days
• Tuition reimbursement

New Hire Starting Rate: $19.85 per hour

EQUAL RIGHTS AND OPPORTUNITIES POLICY
As an equal rights and opportunities agency, the Bethlehem Area School District will not discriminate in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, veteran status, or any other legally protected classification. This policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.