Early Childhood Director

 Early Childhood Director
Curious Kids
Position available now

Job Summary: 

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Early Childhood Director to lead and manage our early childhood education programs. The successful candidate will oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of curriculum and educational activities, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for young children. This role requires strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills to effectively manage staff, communicate with parents, and adhere to state regulations and standards.

Responsibilities: 

• Program Management:
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs and curricula that meet the developmental needs of children.
  • Ensure compliance with state licensing regulations and accreditation standards by maintaining necessary documentation, and working with Licensing.
  • Responsible for developing program policies and procedures in coordination with Licensing requirements and PPS culture; oversees all processes to ensure they are adhered to consistently.
  • Create and maintain an environment that is safe, inclusive, and conducive to learning.
  • Facilitate the integration of Early Childhood Special Education programs with local elementary buildings to provide technical assistance to programs, building staff, and administrators
  • Consult with ESI/special education administration, teachers, and itinerant staff in the KRESA Southern Service Area to
    • provide administrative support
    • identify program and curriculum needs
    • assist in short- and long-term planning
    • coordinate the provision of paraprofessional services
• Staff Supervision:
  • Recruit, hire, train, and supervise early childhood educators and support staff.
  • Develops and maintains proper staffing schedule per the LARA child care guidelines.
  • Responsible for the LARA child care comprehensive criminal background check for all pending hires and employees.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings, provide professional development opportunities, and conduct performance evaluations per the LARA child care guideline requirements.
  • Responsible for coordinating and reviewing all employee professional development, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.
• Parent and Community Engagement:
  • Establish and maintain open communication with parents, addressing concerns and regularly updating their child’s progress.
  • Organize and participate in community outreach activities and events to promote the program and build relationships with local organizations.
• Administrative Duties:
  • Develop and manage the program’s budget and amendment process, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
  • Maintain accurate records, including attendance, health, and safety reports.
  • Ensure the facility and equipment are well-maintained and meet health and safety standards.
  • Works cooperatively with the Transportation, Maintenance, Finance, Human Resources, Payroll, Food Service and Purchasing Departments.
• Curriculum and Assessment:
  • Oversee the planning and implementation of age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
  • Monitor and assess the developmental progress of children, adapting programs to meet their needs.
  • Stay current with early childhood education trends, research, and best practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned: 

The above duties and responsibilities are intended to be representative of the nature of the work by this position.  The listing is not all-inclusive.
 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education or another child-related field; such as child development. Master’s degree preferred.
• Special Education Background preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or administrative role.
• Are currently or can be qualified as a Program Director by MDHHS/LARA.
• Knowledge of the State of Michigan Child Care Licensing regulations.
• CPR/First Aid/AED trained.
• Ability to assume responsibility, display initiative, and exercise good judgment.
• Proficient computer and document skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, parents, staff, and the community.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

The above duties and responsibilities are intended to be representative of the nature of the work by this position.  The listing is not all-inclusive.

 

Please apply online at https://www.portageps.org/page/employment-at-pps

Who is PPS?  View our Strategic Commitments

Notice of Non-Discrimination:  The Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.  The following positions at Portage Public Schools have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy:  Human Resources Director Brad Galin and Human Resources Manager Jennifer Tuyls.  Contact information: 269-323-5000, 8107 Mustang Drive, Portage, Mi 49002