Early Learning Center Director

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Early Learning Center Director intentionally fosters a cause-centered culture that is welcoming and focuses on the early development of youth by implementing exceptional programs and services that meet the needs of our communities’ youth and families. This position directly supervises leadership staff for all Early Learning programs and is responsible for quality and exceeding all licensing requirements. 

Supervision/Leadership:

• Lead, manage, and be accountable for the designated Early Learning Center (ELC).
• Recruits, hires, trains, develops, schedules, and directs personnel and volunteers as needed. Reviews and evaluates annual performance reviews. Develops strategies to motivate staff and volunteers to achieve goals.
• Ensure high-quality participant-focused processes that promote recruitment and retention through innovative program development, evaluations, and ongoing staff Supervises and evaluates all programs to assure maximum market penetration and maintain quality.
• Observe and mentor classes Sub for teachers as needed.

Childcare Licensing/Program Management:

• Responsible for oversite of program enrollments and waiting list to ensure classes are at capacity.
• Engage with childcare billing, YMCA financial assistance, and third-party payments for childcare programs to ensure strong fiscal management as needed with Childcare Registrar and Billing Specialist.
• Complete required annual in-service hours for community partners and/or state regulations to maintain certification and meet compliance requirements. Ensure that all staff meet training requirements.
• Communicate with staff, parents/guardians, supervisors, and community members.
• Order and manage all classroom and program supplies and equipment.
• Organize and ensure enhancement activities and family socials are completed throughout the year to engage parents, teachers, and students.
• Help coordinate fundraising projects throughout the year.
• Assures compliance with state and local regulations. Ensures that program standards are met and safety procedures are This includes, but is not limited to, State Childcare regulations and licensing requirements, CACFP and SFYP food program standards and compliance, and Y-USA and Praesidium Child Abuse and Risk Management guidelines. Attends training and maintains all certifications required for the position.

Budgeting / Statistical Tracking:

• Develops and controls budget related to the their Early Learning Center.
• Reviews and analyzes data and forecasts to maintain a positive fiscal position.
• Provides and maintains related statistics and reports.
• Keeps records essential for control, evaluation, and reporting to the Senior Director, CEO, Board of Directors, and Committees.

General:

• Assist in the leadership and executing child abuse prevention best practices for all Y Staff.
• Work with designated partners in all areas as required for grants, support, and the needs of our children and families. May include, but is not limited to, Child Advocacy & Parenting Services (CAPS), etc. Meet all deadlines and requirements for partnerships.
• Assist in establishing, cultivating, and maintaining relationships and partnerships with community partners. Represents the YMCA with key community organizations and events as required.
• May be required to use personal vehicle for business needs.
• Uses discretion and independent judgment in handling confidential and sensitive information in connection with responsibilities.
• Provide exceptional customer service by greeting all participants, maintaining a clean and safe facility, and always demonstrating professional conduct.
• Responds to challenges with possible solutions in a timely manner.
• All other duties as requested. 

• Bachelor’s degree in education, social services, recreation, or equivalent preferred or equivalent professional experience.
• Must be able to acquire and hold a State of Kansas Childcare Center license.
• Experience of working with children of different ages and knowledge of the developmental stages and needs of the youth of all ages required.
• Experience in leadership/supervision is required; applicable experience in a YMCA or other childcare agency is preferred. Previous experience with diverse populations is recommended.
• Ability to direct programs through supervision of staff and volunteers, development and monitoring budgets, program development, and community service.
• Strong organizational skills and effective communication skills to present information, gather feedback, and highlight risks, opportunities, and key business points.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required to deepen relationships with members and community partners.
• Excellent personal computer skills and experience with standard business software.
• Strong time management and organizational skills, including meeting deadlines, managing multiple tasks, and balancing shifting priorities while maintaining confidentiality.
• The ideal candidate should be willing to work as part of the Leadership Team and demonstrate and lead our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Must hold a valid Driver’s License and current auto insurance.
• Certifications: CPR/FA/ TB/Physical, within 30 days of hire.

• Employee Assistance Program
• Retirement Contribution