Director Westcliff Early Learning Academy

Job Description

Job Description

Westcliff Early Learning Academy is seeking a passionate and experienced Director to lead its next phase of growth at its brand new campus in Irvine, California.   

At Westcliff Early Learning Academy (WELA), you will find a warm, inclusive, and collaborative community where team members are respected, supported, and genuinely appreciated. With strong organizational values, outstanding benefits, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, WELA offers more than a job, it is a place to grow, contribute, and succeed together.

Inspired by the Montessori approach, the Reggio Emilia philosophy, and nature-based education, we intentionally create environments that encourage independence, social connection, creativity, and joyful exploration. We bring that same thoughtful approach to supporting our educators and staff through meaningful professional development, reflective practice, innovation, and lifelong learning.

As part of the broader Westcliff University community, you will play an important role in our continued growth and have the opportunity to bring your unique strengths, ideas, and personal touch to our progress.
If you are passionate about early childhood education and inspired by the wonder of how children learn, we invite you to explore this opportunity and discover what makes the WELA community so special. 

Director of Westcliff Early Learning Academy (WELA) 

Position Summary 

The  Director of Westcliff Early Learning Academy (WELA) is responsible for the day-to-day leadership, administration, and operational oversight of WELA. The Director ensures the delivery of a high-quality early childhood education program by overseeing educational programming, licensing compliance, staff supervision, student safety, and operational effectiveness.

The Director serves as the primary operational leader for WELA and collaborates with the Dean of the College of Education and designated Westcliff University administrative departments—including Human Resources, Payroll, Information Technology, Finance, and Facilities—to support the Academy's strategic and operational objectives. Operational responsibilities are carried out in accordance with institutional policies and within the scope of authority delegated by the University., which may be modified from time to time.

Essential Functions Leadership & Operations: 

• Direct daily Academy operations; implement operational procedures; evaluate program effectiveness; prepare reports; coordinate with University support departments 
• Personnel Management : Supervise assigned employees, including work assignments, coaching, performance evaluations, and professional development, and collaborate with Human Resources and University leadership regarding personnel matters, as appropriate and in accordance with University policies. 
• Educational Program Administration: Oversee curriculum implementation; monitor classroom quality; support teacher trainees participating in practicum or student teaching experiences. Licensing, Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure compliance with applicable licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, and institutional policies; oversee inspections and required records.
• Financial Administration: Assist with development and administration of the operating budget; monitor expenditures and recommend budget adjustments. 
• Parent & Community Relations: Serve as the primary point of contact for parents and guardians; support enrollment and community engagement. Additional Responsibilities Participate on committees or workgroups as assigned. Assist with grant-related initiatives, when applicable. Perform other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. 
• Minimum five years of progressively responsible experience in an early childhood education program. Minimum one year of supervisory experience. 
• Knowledge of California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing requirements. Valid California driver's license (if required). Current First Aid and CPR certification for infants, children, and adults, or ability to obtain.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Master's degree in a related field. 
• Experience with Montessori and/or Reggio Emilia educational approaches.
• Experience managing licensed early childhood education programs and budgets. 
• Experience supporting teacher preparation
  or practicum programs. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

• Knowledge of child development and early childhood education. 
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local regulations. 
• Ability to supervise, coach, and evaluate employees. 
• Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and project management skills. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and related software. 

Physical Requirements & Work Environment 

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. 
• Regular standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching. 
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds. 
• Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors. Ability to respond to emergencies. 
• Regular use of computers and standard office equipment. 

Disclaimer This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of essential functions, responsibilities or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may be modified or assigned at any time based on organizational needs.