Director of Early Childhood

Primary Function: To oversee and coordinate the Early Childhood programs for the district, including tuition pre-kindergarten, GSRP, extended day, and school age child care. To provide for the safety and welfare needs of children in a wholesome environment while in the program's care. To develop a working budget and operating plan which incorporates all grant awards and ensures that operations of the Community Services Fund can be solvent and operate effectively and efficiently as a part of the district.

Qualifications - Education & Experience:

• Master's degree or higher in the field of Early Childhood or a child-related field (e.g. Child Development, Elementary Education)
• School Administrator endorsement, preferred
• Must meet Great Start Readiness Program requirements for a Program Director.
• Must meet Michigan Child Care Licensing Division requirements for a Program Director.
• Valid certification in CPR (Infant, Child, and Adult) and First Aid is required.
• Administrative experience and successful classroom teaching experience, preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of current early childhood issues and best practices, including HighScope curriculum and GSRP grant management.
• Excellent written communication, organizational and management skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and success in parent/community relations, staff development, human relations, and administrative practices.
• Knowledge and experience in management of grants, budgets, bookkeeping and record keeping for childcare programs.
• Extensive knowledge of childcare program licensing requirements and regulations at the state and federal levels.
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate and acceptable.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the management and administration of the district's early childhood programs, including but not limited to tuition preschool, GSRP, and extended day.
• Maintain full compliance with LARA/MiLEAP licensing requirements for childcare centers and GSRP Implementation Manual standards.
• Develop a working budget and operating plan which incorporates all grant awards and ensures that operations of the Community Services Fund can be solvent and operate effectively and efficiently as a part of the district.
• Oversee policy and procedures regarding tuition, fees, invoicing, collections, etc. in a timely, efficient, and effective manner.
• Prepare and update schedules, policies, and regulations to operate programs in a prudent and economical manner.
• Oversee and coordinate Early Childhood grants, including writing and assessment of grant programs.
• Maintain an observation schedule for grant management and regularly prepare and submit a budget to administration.
• Hold monthly parenting workshops and meetings.
• Attend advisory Board meetings (local and county).
• Supervise all staff through various tools, including monthly staff meetings and staff evaluations.
• Collaborate with Human Resources to recruit, hire, train, and promote staff.
• Ensure all GSRP lead and associate teachers hold required education/endorsements.
• Monitor all CDA renewals and CEU updates for staff.
• Monitor and document annual state-mandated staff professional development (at least 16 hours of continued learning/year) and oversee MiRegistry accounts for organization.
• Determine conference attendance options for staff.
• Collaborate with staff regarding behavioral challenges and suggest solutions.
• Implement comprehensive safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Conduct regular safety drills and update emergency plans.
• Monitor school security measures and address concerns promptly.
• Create a physically and emotionally safe learning environment.
• Maintain safety standards in conformance with state and insurance regulations, as well as develop a program of preventative safety.
• Develop a monthly newsletter for both parents and staff.
• Take an active role in the marketing of Early Childhood programs in conjunction with the district communications coordinator.
• Coordinate GSRP/tuition/SACC enrollment.
• Work in close collaboration with Oakland Schools for GSRP program needs.
• Supervise the implementation of approved curricula (HighScope) and assessment/screening tools(COR/ASQ).
• Maintain regular and predictable in-person attendance
• Openly support and abide by all school board policies, legal procedures, and administrative regulations.
• Actively support and advance the district's vision and mission.
• Perform other duties as required.

Application Process:

Interested applicants must submit a detailed letter of interest, resume, references, transcripts, plus any other supportive materials for consideration through our online application system

Please note:  mailed, faxed or emailed letters of interest and resumes will not be accepted.

Lake Orion Community Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex, color, national origin, religion, age, height, weight, marital status or otherwise qualified handicapped individuals with respect to District educational programs, activities and employment practices.