Head Start/State Pre-K Center Director

POSITION REQUIREMENTS: A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development. Must meet Head Teacher requirements of the RI Department of Human Services (DHS), the RI Department of Education (DOE), and the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs. Must have a minimum of 2 - 4 years' experience in an early childhood center, Prefer 2 years of supervisory experience

. Must be First Aid and CPR certified, and able to lift and carry children (typically 30 - 50 lbs.)

BASIC PURPOSE: Supervise the overall operation of the center; ensure implementation of the educational program for children in each classroom and ensure center compliance with all applicable licensing criteria, Head Start Performance Standards, BrightStars, RIDE and NAEYC accreditation standards, and agency rules and regulations.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise all teachers, assistant teachers and volunteers at assigned center

• Provide direction and support; establish individual training plans; monitor and evaluate performance; take corrective actions; provide staff development opportunities; assist with interviewing education staff candidates and making hiring recommendations.

• Oversee all classroom operations at assigned center; ensure all aspects of the Agency's Education Plan are implemented, conduct monthly center staff meetings, schedule coverage for classrooms as necessary, work with Family Department to ensure that parent volunteers receive guidance and direction.

• Responsible for assigned center compliance with RI Department of Education, RI Department Human Services, BrightStars, Head Start regulations and National Academy of Early Childhood Programs licensing and accreditation standard.

• Assures the s health and safety of all children, by monitoring the implementation of WHSCDA's Health and Supervision Policies and Procedures.

• Assist teaching teams in managing safe, healthy, and stimulating learning environments.

• Support staff in the design and set up classrooms environments to accomplish program goals. Support the acquisition of adequate materials, supplies, and equipment and assure that they are on hand for daily use and that classroom cleanliness is maintained.

• Provide observations and advice to Family Worker or Specialist(s) as appropriate for referrals for special education and mental health services. Share information about children and families appropriately, always ensuring confidentiality.

• Encourage and foster open communication with parents, co-workers and community members.

• Encourage parent participation in all aspects of the program including: center committee educational activities, support groups, policy council, component committees etc. Welcome parents into the center as volunteers, providing guidance and directions as appropriate.

• Participate in staff development and training: attend all staff meetings and in-service training sessions; attend a minimum of two (2) outside workshops in Early Childhood Education; learn Head Start philosophy and objectives.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with recruitment and selection of program participants.

• Supervision of children is everyone's responsibility

• Perform other duties as assigned