Director of Early Childhood Learning and Development

Overview

Director of Early Childhood Learning and Development Jobs in Buffalo, NY at YWCA Western New York

Mission: YWCA of Western New York is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Our vision is a thriving community without divide.

Overall Scope

Since the YWCA of WNY’s founding in 1870, we have responded to the needs of the community by providing high quality programs and services that promote racial and social justice, and advance women’s empowerment. Working from an anti-racism and trauma-informed foundation, this commitment continues today through a continuum of comprehensive supports and services, focused specifically in the areas of education, youth development, childcare, advocacy, housing, and economic empowerment.

YWCA of WNY supports over 6,000 women, children, and families annually. Our programs empower children to grow in healthy, nurturing, and enriched environments, youth to unlock their potential and build a path to success, women to attain self-sufficiency, and seniors to secure safe, affordable housing that keeps them connected to the community.

Position Summary

The Director of Early Childhood Education is responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and management of early childhood education programs within a school, daycare, or educational institution. This role involves ensuring that the curriculum aligns with educational standards, fostering a nurturing environment for children, and leading a team of educators. The Director is a key leader in shaping the educational experience for young learners, from birth to early elementary school, and works closely with parents, teachers, and the community to support the development of each child. The Director has the responsibility of providing oversight related to compliance requirements and the implementation of programs, policies and procedures subject to OCFS regulations. The Director of Early Childhood Education is a dynamic person who can work in a fast-paced environment. Exceptional communication, organization and project management skills are essential.

Professional Attributes

· Skilled operational leader with supervisory experience

· Ability to build effective teams to execute mission of the organization

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team

· Maintain discretion and confidentiality in relationships with residents, community partners, and supporters of the YWCA of WNY

· Interpersonal qualities, approach, and style that foster meaningful relationships

· Community relations and customer service skills

· Time management, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlines

Required Skills and Abilities

Program Leadership and Development:

· Lead and oversee the design and implementation of early childhood education programs and curricula.

· Ensure the curriculum aligns with state and national standards, promoting developmentally appropriate practices.

· Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs and make necessary adjustments.

· Foster a child-centered, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Staff Supervision and Development:

· Recruit, train, and supervise a team of Center Directors, Project Directors, Site Coordinators, teachers, and other educational staff.

· Provide ongoing professional development and support to enhance staff effectiveness and satisfaction.

· Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback for improvement.

· Promote a culture of teamwork, respect, and continuous learning.

Parent and Community Engagement:

· Establish strong communication channels with parents and families, providing regular updates on children’s progress and program activities.

· Organize and lead parent workshops and educational events to support early childhood development.

· Build partnerships with community organizations, local schools, and other stakeholders to enhance resources and support for the program.

Operational and Budget Management:

· Manage the program’s budget, ensuring financial efficiency and the proper allocation of resources.

· Oversee the maintenance of a safe, clean, and well-organized learning environment.

· Ensure compliance with licensing, regulatory, and accreditation requirements.

Child Development and Safety:

· Monitor the developmental progress of children and ensure their individual needs are met.

· Promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in a safe and nurturing environment.

· Implement safety protocols and emergency procedures to protect children and staff.

Assessment and Reporting:

· Conduct regular assessments of children’s learning and developmental milestones.

· Prepare reports and data for school administration, accreditation bodies, funders and government agencies as required.

Advocacy and Leadership:

· Advocate for early childhood education within the broader community and policy-making spaces.

· Keep current with trends and best practices in early childhood education and incorporate them into the program.

· Serve as a liaison between the institution and external education bodies.

External Relations:

· Collaborating with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community partners to access funding and resources

· Building relationships with local stakeholders and participating in relevant community initiatives

· Prepare social media posts including photographing activities and writing captions

· Attend meetings and/or training as required

· Will represent the Early Childhood Education publicly including speaking to media outlets, at promotional events, with community stakeholders and on social media platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (required).
• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field (preferred).
• At least 5-7 years of experience in early childhood education, with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership or administrative role.
• Knowledge of early childhood development, best practices in education, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, families, and the community.
• Certification in First Aid/CPR (preferred).
• Candidates must possess strong organizational abilities and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Fiscal management expertise including budget planning and analysis
• Excellent oral and written communication abilities and interpersonal skills are required.

· Proficient in Microsoft Suite

· Dependable and flexible, with ability to quickly respond to changing priorities.

· Ability to be productive in a high demand position

· Must possess a valid driver’s license

Physical Demands

This position is performed sitting but may require some time standing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, lifting, walking, carrying, and other movements. Tasks include working at a computer monitor, using a computer keyboard and mouse, and working with computer software applications, which may involve extensive wrist and hand movement. All individuals must perform these movements without significant risk of injury to themselves or others.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of the job, the employee is exposed to basic office conditions.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $62,000.00 – $72,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Title: Director of Early Childhood Learning and Development

Company: YWCA Western New York

Location: Buffalo, NY

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