Early Childhood Director

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

Senior executive position responsible for overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of New Beginnings Early Learning Center. Oversee all aspects of program operations, including educational quality, family engagement, staff development, fiscal management, and regulatory compliance. Ensure delivery of high-quality early childhood education aligned with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS) while maintaining a positive organizational culture and sustainable business practices.

What You'll Do

Primary ResponsibilitiesProgram Leadership

• Develop and implement program vision, mission, and strategic goals
• Ensure high-quality early childhood education across all age groups
• Lead program quality improvement initiatives
• Oversee curriculum implementation and assessment practices
• Guide program evaluation and continuous improvement
• Maintain state funding requirements and deliverables
• Ensure compliance with all licensing regulations
• Support accreditation maintenance and renewal
• Foster an inclusive, culturally responsive environment
• Guide program expansion and development initiatives

Staff Management and Development

• Oversee recruitment, hiring, and retention of qualified staff
• Supervise and evaluate program leadership team
• Support professional development planning and implementation
• Foster positive staff morale and organizational culture
• Ensure appropriate staffing patterns and coverage
• Manage staff scheduling and time off requests
• Address staff concerns and conflicts
• Lead staff meetings and professional development
• Implement staff recognition and appreciation initiatives
• Guide career development and advancement opportunities

Financial Management

• Develop and manage program budget
• Oversee tuition collection and fee policies
• Manage state funding and grants
• Monitor expenses and revenue
• Ensure cost-effective operations
• Manage payroll and benefits administration
• Oversee purchasing and vendor relationships
• Maintain financial records and reporting
• Seek additional funding opportunities
• Plan for long-term financial sustainability

Family and Community Relations

• Develop and maintain positive family partnerships
• Oversee enrollment and waitlist management
• Guide family communication strategies
• Address family concerns and feedback
• Lead family engagement initiatives
• Build community partnerships and relationships
• Represent program at community events
• Oversee marketing and outreach efforts
• Maintain positive public relations
• Support family education opportunities

Facility and Operations Management

• Ensure safe and well-maintained facilities
• Oversee building maintenance and repairs
• Manage safety and security procedures
• Coordinate emergency preparedness
• Oversee food service program
• Maintain appropriate insurance coverage
• Manage facility use and scheduling
• Oversee purchasing of equipment and supplies
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
• Plan for facility improvements and updates

Administrative Leadership

• Develop and maintain program policies and procedures
• Ensure accurate record-keeping and documentation
• Maintain licensing and regulatory compliance
• Oversee program data collection and analysis
• Prepare reports for stakeholders and funders
• Manage program technology systems
• Coordinate with support services and consultants
• Lead quality rating and improvement systems
• Oversee program assessment and evaluation
• Maintain professional and regulatory documents

Educational Leadership

• Support pedagogical leadership team
• Guide curriculum and assessment decisions
• Ensure appropriate developmental practices
• Monitor child outcomes and progress
• Support inclusion and individualization
• Guide professional development planning
• Foster reflective teaching practices
• Support teacher growth and development
• Ensure appropriate classroom resources
• Guide program quality initiatives

Requirements

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
• Minimum 5 years administrative experience in early childhood setting
• Connecticut Director's Credential required
• Strong understanding of CT ELDS and DOTS
• Experience with state-funded early childhood programs
• Knowledge of CT licensing regulations
• Business management experience
• Grant writing and management experience
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

Schedule

• Full-time position with flexible schedule
• Early morning and evening availability required
• Occasional weekend responsibilities
• On-call availability for emergencies

• Experience with budget management and planning

Professional Skills

• Strategic planning and implementation
• Strong organizational and time management
• Excellence in written and verbal communication
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making
• Cultural competence and sensitivity
• Crisis management abilities
• Technology proficiency
• Data analysis and reporting
• Public speaking and presentation
• Conflict resolution skills

Benefits

Executive Compensation Package

• Competitive Executive Salary: Commensurate with education, experience, and organizational scope with annual performance-based review
• Comprehensive Executive Benefits: Premium health insurance, retirement plan with organizational contribution, generous paid time off, and professional development allowance
• Professional Development: Annual professional development stipend, conference attendance support, and continuing education assistance
• Executive Perquisites: Flexible work arrangements, technology provision, and professional membership support

Career Development Opportunities

• Leadership Advancement: Opportunities for expanded organizational responsibility, multi-site leadership, or system-wide roles
• Network Development: Access to executive leadership networks, board service opportunities, and professional advisory roles