Director Of Early Learning Programs

The Director of Early Learning Programs is responsible for overseeing, managing all aspects and maintaining high quality standards of the early learning programs at the Community Group (LEAP, 11 Ballard Way, 20 Ballard Way and Lawrence High School). This role requires a deep understanding of early childhood education principles, curriculum development, staff management, and program administration. The Director of Early Learning Programs plays a crucial role in shaping the educational and developmental experiences of young children. This position requires a combination of educational expertise, leadership skills, and a commitment to fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for children in their formative years.

Leadership and Management:

• Develop and implement high-quality early learning programs that align with educational standards and best practices.

• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.

• Lead, supervise and coach Program Managers/Center Directors on the daily operations of EEC licensed programs.

• Support Program Managers/Center Directors in hiring, training and performance management

• Ensure fulfillment of all grant and private funding requirements.

• Assist the Senior Director of Continuous Quality Improvement to develop systems to track and execute grant requirements across all program sites.

• Train and coach Program Managers/Center Directors in relation to classroom quality and curriculum and instruction.

• Physically and/or support with plans for coverage at programs during extended Program Manager/Director absence or as needed to maintain compliance.

• Support Program Managers/Centers Directors as needed with EEC Licensing and NAEYC Accreditation expectations in accordance with regulatory standards.

• Attend monthly meetings with external Pyramid Coach to support TCG's implementation around expectations of participation in The Pyramid Model.

Coaching/Curriculum/Professional Development

• For coaching and mentoring - Carry a minimum caseload of one classroom per program and high priority classrooms identified by self and/or Program Managers/Center Directors.

• Oversee and/or complete CLASS a minimum of two times a year on classrooms to guide and inform coaching cycles for Program Managers/Center Directors.

• Develop, coordinate and support professional development trainings as needed and in collaboration with the Program Managers/Center Directors.

• Update and Review YAAG Pacing and Summer Pacing for 3's, 4's, and 5 Year Olds to reflect program initiatives, holidays, and include some flexibility throughout the year for teachers to tailor lessons or activities in an individualized manner.

• Review and organize lesson planning systems for school year and summer curriculum to ensure that classrooms can adequately and equally plan for weekly activities.

• Train Program Managers/Center Directors to coach their educators on all other aspects of program initiatives and other coachable items.

• With the support of the Program Managers/Center Directors, organizes WOW experiences, special guest visitors and culminating activities for various themes being explored throughout the year.

• Planning for and implementing periodic times to support teachers with understanding and implementing of curriculum.

• Support Program Managers/Center Directors with systems and processes.

Quality Assurance:

• Stay informed about relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to early childhood education.

• Conduct regular, formal and informal program observations, visiting all sites weekly, to ensure compliance and set goals and outcomes for the Management Teams.

• Assist Program Managers/Center Directors to assess data and documentation as needed to identify areas of needed change/improvement.

• Oversee and ensure implementation of strategies that promote program growth and retention of children and families.

• Establish a system and monitor program quality standards, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

• Assist Program Managers/Center Directors with NAEYC Accreditation.

• Collaborate with community organizations, agencies, and stakeholders to enhance program offerings and resources.

Family Engagement/Support:

• Build positive relationships with parents and caregivers, fostering open communication and involvement in their child's education.

• Attend to family concerns, working in collaboration for mutual resolutions/agreements.

• Partner with Director of Family Supports on interventions and referrals for children.

• Develop outreach that supports positive parent relationships;

• Support with coordinating family related events/initiatives.

Other

• May partake in other duties as assigned due to the size of the programs and their needs.

Qualifications

• Previous management experience preferred

• Familiarity with EEC regulations

• Highly organized and capable of managing several simultaneous workflows

• Willingness to hold self and others accountable to outcomes

• Adept and proactive communicator

• Outgoing and professional personality

• Solutions- and team-oriented

• Proficient using technology

• Relevant experience and degree required

• Bilingual (Spanish) a plus

Requirements:

• Must possess the qualifications required for their positions in accordance with EEC regulations;

• Must complete CORI, SORI and fingerprint scan in accordance with regulations set forth by the Department of Early Education and Care prior to employment;

• Evidence of physical examination within one year prior to employment;

• Evidence of immunizations against Measles, Mumps and Rubella; and

• Maintain current infant/child CPR and First Aid Certification.