Preschool Director

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for the administration and operation of the Nature Center Preschool to promote ecological literacy and to achieve the Association’s goals and objectives in accordance with strategic and operating plans ensuring financial and operational efficiency. Responsibilities include operational leadership for the development and maintenance of a high-quality Nature-based Early Learning program serving Preschool and Pre-K while providing opportunities to shape ecological values and encourage lifelong learning for children. Nature Center Preschool at SSNSC is dedicated to awakening an interest in the outdoors and engaging children in learning through exploration and observation of the outdoors through its program. This position will provide classroom leadership for age-appropriate/DAP utilizing anti-bias and inclusive activities, incorporating outdoor learning and activities in the curriculum, while guiding families and providing new opportunities for lasting personal and social change.

The incumbent must embrace the Association’s matrix management system and demonstrate a collaborative philosophy. Also responsible for articulating the Y’s mission, values, vision, and goals to the NCP staff, families, board members, members, and community.

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and make a difference. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. PROGRAM MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT

Planning and execution of program guidelines/standards to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives. Managing all classroom operations ensuring compliance in all related areas including EEC licensing procedures and regulations, following NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence, Healthy Eating Physical Activity (HEPA) standards for young children, implementation of Teaching Strategies Gold assessment and alignment to the MA Curriculum Frameworks/Common Core MA Standards. Provide reasonable accommodations to allow children with diverse abilities to participate in activities whenever possible and to meet each child’s individual needs according to EEC and ADA.

2. STAFF ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT

Directly supervises all educators, students and volunteers in accordance with the organization's policies, EEC regulations, applicable laws, QRIS Standards and NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence. Plans, assigns, and directs staff and volunteer work. Leads staff with vision for innovative teaching practices with a focus on emergent curriculum and inquiry-based teaching and learning. Communicates staff concerns in an efficient and timely manner.

3. MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT

Builds relationships with and among families and members, responds to inquiries and solves problems in a timely and efficient manner. Creates a supportive community environment, assists in recruiting and engaging new families, and connects families to the YMCA’s cause.

4. BUDGET DEVELOPMENT- FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Develops, plans and manages department budgeted as approved in a fiscally responsible manner. Responsible for the timely and accurate submission of invoices and payroll.

5. FACILITY MANAGEMENT

Works with supervisor and NCP/SSNSC facilities management to ensure program facilities and equipment for children are safe, clean, adequately equipped, well maintained, and attractive.

6. VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT

Responsible for engaging and supervising volunteers. Responsible for developing effective and meaningful Family Advisory Council with goals to align with SOUTH SHORE YMCA strategic plan.

7. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT & SUPPORT

Assists in SOUTH SHORE YMCA fundraising events and engages in collaborative relationships with community organizations in order to strengthen support and build community. Meet Annual Campaign budget goals as defined by Association.

YMCA COMPETENCIES - LEADER

Mission and Community Oriented – Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values. Work effectively with people of all backgrounds and levels. Willingness to serve and fulfill community needs. Recruit volunteers and build supportive relationships with them.

People Oriented – Remains calm in challenging situations and seeks to understand the underlying cause. Speaks and writes effectively. Develops rapport, relates well and takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Results Oriented – Discovers ideas to create and deliver a high-value member experience. Makes sound judgments, establishes goals, plans work, supports fundraising, and adheres to budgeting procedures.

Personal Development – Recognizes personal strengths and limitations, pursues self-development and demonstrates flexibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Completion or in process of attaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Early Education, or related field is preferred.
• Director 2 qualifications from the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).
• Advanced knowledge and experience with EEC regulations, QRIS Standards and NAAEE guidelines for Excellence.
• The ability to develop positive, effective working relationships with, staff, children & families, volunteers, school administrators, members, community leaders and other agencies are critical to this position.
• Effective nature-based teaching skills, the ability to implement methods to address and follow up with family/staff needs/concerns in a positive and professional way reflecting an attitude that values diversity. Willing to work outdoors for extended periods of time, in varying terrain and weather conditions.
• Computer proficient with experience in Microsoft Office and Word.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to: climb stairs, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach with hands, sit, stand for an extended period of time, lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, have finger dexterity, grasp, perform repetitive motions, talk, hear and have visual acuity. Additional activities may be required as part of the job consist of climbing, running, and other extended outdoor activities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,000.00 - $64,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: One location