Program Director Early Care and Learning Program

Program Director Position

Salary: determined by experience and education

Otter Creek Child Center, established in 1984 as a non-profit early care and education center located in Middlebury, VT is growing and is seeking a Program Director to add to our established administration team. Otter Creek is a 5 STARS, NAEYC accredited center serving children 6 weeks to 5 years and their families.

General Position Description

The Program Director is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and quality of education, for all children within the center’s care. The Program Director is directly accountable for overall operational management in accordance with well-established guidelines, including curriculum development, staff and facilities management, legal and budgetary considerations, and long range planning. The Program Director works with the Teachers to ensure that they are prepared to deliver the lesson plans and that the lesson plans meet the curriculum guidelines. S/he oversees professional development plan for the center and individual teachers. The Program Director ensures that the needs of the children and the goals of the center are met appropriately.

This position reports directly to the Executive Director. They will attend monthly board meetings, present a monthly director’s report at board meetings, and is free to consult with the board of directors as needed.

Children, Families & Community Outreach

• · Serve as first point of contact for families.
• · Facilitate enrollment of children into center in accordance with center guidelines and policy.
• · Maintain communications with families of current and prospective children through direct conversation, newsletters and family handbook
• · Implement community outreach activities to maintain and promote positive community relationships.

Teachers

• · Support teachers in developing curriculum that meets the learning goals of the center and supports cognitive development of the children. Collaborate with staff to develop positive learning activities; manage adherence to state and local regulations.
• · Work with Teachers to develop lesson plans that support curriculum; ensure they have access to appropriate materials.
• · Stay abreast of new developments in early learning curricula; introduce curricula improvements.
• · Review Teacher notes and comments and make suggestions for improvement.
• · Collaborate with Teachers to prepare means of sharing curriculum with families.
• · Identify educational opportunities to further develop skills of center staff.
• · Review and support teacher’s professional development plans to ensure continuous quality improvement.

General Management

• · Assume duties of Executive Director and Teachers as needed during their absence.
• · Implement strategic plan and goals in keeping with mission of program.
• · Orders educational and household supplies and materials.
• · Maintain positive relationships with regulatory agencies; ensure legal compliance.

Shared Administrative Responsibilities

• Follow all center policies and state regulations.
• Lead and inspire staff to accomplish the goals of the organization and understand and fully embrace the mission and values.
• Ensure an engaging climate which attracts, motivates, and supports a talented, diverse staff to effectively execute programs.
• Establish quality vision for the center. Manage adherence to quality standards in accordance with the vision and with state and local requirements. Maintain quality effectiveness measurements.
• Maintain contact with local social service agencies.
• Establish program policies and procedures; including illness and emergency procedures; ensure staff is trained appropriately.
• Build and maintain relationships with local resources to maximize referrals

Additional Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required

• Minimum of 3-years experience in early childhood setting; significant curriculum development.
• Strong understanding of child development.
• Ability to work well with others and to foster a team environment.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Must clear full background check.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in early childhood education or related field of study.
• Master’s Degree preferred.
• Vermont Program Director Credential- Step 1- required Step 2- preferred

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Be able to walk, squat/kneel, sit on floor with children to ensure children’s health and safety

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance