Job Description
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated leader to direct and oversee high-quality education and child development services for infants and toddlers, including those with disabilities. This role ensures that educational services encompass child screenings, assessments, a rich teaching and learning environment, comprehensive curricula, and strong family engagement. A key aspect of this position is ensuring that services are inclusive and responsive to the unique needs of dual language learners, homeless children, children in foster care, and children with disabilities.
The Director will supervise home visitors, ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing requirements, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, this role includes the development of a professional learning program tailored to the needs of teachers, home visitors, and parents, with a built-in coaching component.
Collaboration with health, mental health, nutrition, and family and community engagement teams is vital for a holistic approach to child growth and development. This role also requires maintaining comprehensive data and record-keeping systems to support ongoing improvement efforts. Extensive interaction with children, staff, parents, and the broader community is central to success in this position.
About You
The ideal candidate is:
A self-motivated and dedicated individual with a passion for early childhood education and child development.
A personable, energetic, and empathetic leader who can effectively manage staff and multiple projects to achieve program goals.
A skilled professional who understands the Head Start Performance Standards and can maintain compliance with all applicable regulations.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
In-depth knowledge of IDEA and the 504 Rehabilitation Act.
At least two years of teaching and supervisory experience in a similar role.
Strong ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, including experience in professional development and training.
Proficiency in using computer hardware and software for record-keeping, reporting, and presentations.
Valid driver's license, personal vehicle, and liability insurance.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards and early childhood curricula.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Development
Lead the development and enhancement of educational and child development goals that support school readiness.
Ensure that all services align with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework and state early learning guidelines.
Oversee the implementation of education and child development services, ensuring compliance with IDEA and the 504 Rehabilitation Act.
Develop policies and procedures for early childhood education services and monitor their implementation.
Assess community, program, child, and family needs to develop data-driven improvements.
Administer the education services budget, ensuring financial integrity.
Create and oversee a professional development plan for all teaching staff that includes coaching and support.
Education & Teaching Support
Provide training for teachers and home visitors on assessments, child screenings, and individualized learning plans.
Ensure that curricula are research-based, content-rich, and follow a scope and sequence appropriate for infants and toddlers.
Maintain safe and developmentally appropriate classroom and playground learning environments.
Monitor classrooms, home visits, and teaching practices to ensure high-quality instruction.
Provide guidance on culturally and linguistically appropriate learning plans for all children.
Support teachers in achieving professional development goals, including earning credentials such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate.
Disabilities & Inclusion Support
Review developmental screenings to identify children with special needs and facilitate referrals as necessary.
Collaborate with early childhood intervention (ECI) agencies to implement and evaluate disabilities services.
Ensure compliance with IDEA and the 504 Rehabilitation Act to support children with disabilities in inclusive settings.
Provide training and resources to teachers and home visitors on best practices for supporting children with special needs.
Offer guidance and education to parents of children with disabilities.
Physical Requirements
Ability to see, hear, and use hands for required documentation.
Ability to lift infants and toddlers up to 40 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
Ability to sit, bend, kneel, and stoop as needed during child engagement activities.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Why Join Us?
We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment where every child and family can thrive. Our work is driven by a dedication to authentic relationships, high-quality education, and meaningful community impact. If you are passionate about early childhood education and making a difference in the lives of young children and their families, we encourage you to apply!
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $ 27.00 Per Hour
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time,