Early Childhood Director

Early Childhood Director

The Early Childhood Director will provide leadership, management, and oversight for the early childhood education programs at Divine Savior Academy. This position is responsible for ensuring that the preschool and early childhood programs are aligned with the school's Christian values, offering a nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment where children can grow spiritually, academically, and socially. The Director will lead the early childhood team, ensuring effective curriculum delivery, teacher development, and fostering a partnership with families.

Values

The core values of Divine Savior Academy are the following:

• Walk with God: I follow Jesus in all areas of my life and am active in a Christian community.
• Lead with a servant's heart: I find ways to positively influence and help those around me.
• Thrive through cooperation: I choose to work with others towards a common goal, so we can go further together.
• Practice a growth mindset: I see my challenges as opportunities to learn and believe I can improve over time.
• Live boldly and confidently: I trust God has a good plan for me, so I take big chances and try new things.

Duties

• Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of the early childhood education program, including preschool, pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten
• Ensure the program provides a safe, nurturing, and Christ-centered environment for all children
• Develop and implement age-appropriate, innovative, and biblically integrated curricula, ensuring alignment with the school's educational philosophy and goals
• Create and manage schedules for teachers, children, and classroom activities
• Ensure that the program complies with all state and local regulations and licensing requirements
• Oversee the assessment and monitoring of children's academic, social, and emotional progress, using data to guide instructional practices
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate early childhood educators, offering regular feedback to promote professional growth
• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities for staff to enhance teaching practices, support spiritual growth, and foster teamwork
• Integrate Christian values and teachings into all aspects of the curriculum and daily activities
• Ensure the use of differentiated instruction to meet the diverse needs of all children, including those with special needs or developmental delays
• Regularly review and update curriculum materials to reflect current best practices in early childhood education
• Foster strong partnerships with families, providing regular updates on their child's progress and maintaining open, respectful communication
• Organize and host parent education events, workshops, and conferences to keep parents informed about child development, educational strategies, and the school's mission
• Create opportunities for parents to actively engage in the educational process and community life at the school
• Manage the budget for the early childhood program, ensuring resources are effectively allocated to support program needs and growth
• Oversee the maintenance and procurement of classroom materials, supplies, and equipment
• Ensure that the learning environment is well-equipped, safe, and conducive to learning
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for children, staff, and the program, including attendance, assessments, and reports
• Coordinate enrollment for the early childhood program, including outreach, tours, and registration
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to early childhood education and safety standards
• Assist in school-wide planning and events as needed, including fundraising or community outreach activities

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (Master's degree preferred)
• At least 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with a minimum of 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role
• Experience in Christian education and a deep understanding of integrating faith into the curriculum and daily activities
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, parents, and administration
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information
• A passion for early childhood education and a commitment to nurturing the spiritual, academic, and emotional growth of young children
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and handle administrative tasks efficiently
• Knowledge of early childhood education best practices and current trends in the field
• Familiarity with licensing regulations and early childhood assessment tools
• Exemplary Christian role model who lets his or her "light shine" when interacting with the DSA Family and the community.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds (e.g., classroom supplies, learning materials)
• Ability to actively engage with children in a variety of activities (e.g., outdoor play, hands-on learning)

Reports to:

• Principal