Early Childhood Program Coordinator (Part-Time)

Location: McDonell Area Catholic Schools - St. Charles Location
Department: Early Elementary
Reports To: Building Principal
Employment Type: Part-Time

Position Summary

McDonell Area Catholic Schools is seeking a creative, organized, and collaborative Early Childhood Program Coordinator to oversee the planning, coordination, and continuous improvement of our Early Elementary enrichment and Afterschool programs.

This position is responsible for developing engaging, age-appropriate programming that supports children's academic, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development. Working closely with the Principal and Early Elementary staff, the Program Manager designs curriculum, plans enrichment opportunities, coordinates special events, supports program staff, and ensures high-quality experiences for students and families.

This is an excellent opportunity for an educator or early childhood professional who enjoys program development, curriculum design, and educational leadership while maintaining a flexible, part-time schedule.

Qualifications

• Associates degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred.

• Experience in early childhood education, childcare, enrichment programming, or curriculum development.

• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practice.

• Strong planning, organizational, and project management skills.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to work independently while partnering effectively with school leadership.

• Supports and embraces the mission and values of McDonell Area Catholic Schools.

Essential Responsibilities

Program Development

• Develop and maintain engaging, age-appropriate curriculum for Afterschool and Non-School Day programs.

• Design activities that support academic enrichment, creativity, STEM, literacy, physical activity, outdoor learning, and social-emotional development.

• Ensure programming aligns with the developmental needs of children from preschool through early elementary grades.

• Incorporate Catholic values and character development into program planning.

Curriculum Planning

• Create monthly and seasonal curriculum calendars.

• Develop lesson plans, activity guides, and supply lists for program staff.

• Plan themed weeks, enrichment experiences, and special events.

• Research and implement best practices in early childhood and out-of-school programming.

• Evaluate curriculum effectiveness and recommend improvements.

Program Coordination

• Collaborate with the Principal and teachers to align afterschool programming with classroom learning when appropriate.

• Coordinate enrichment opportunities including guest presenters, field experiences, service projects, and family events.

• Assist in planning school breaks, summer programming, and Non-School Day activities.

• Ensure activities are engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate.

Staff Support

• Provide activity plans, resources, and coaching for Afterschool staff.

• Help onboard and train new program staff in curriculum implementation and classroom management expectations.

• Support consistent program quality across all classrooms.

• Assist the Principal in evaluating program effectiveness and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Program Administration

• Maintain curriculum materials and instructional resources.

• Assist with ordering educational supplies and managing program materials.

• Track participation, gather family feedback, and prepare program reports.

• Help ensure compliance with licensing requirements and school policies related to programming.

Family Engagement

• Communicate upcoming themes, activities, and special events to families.

• Encourage family participation through take-home activities and community-building events.

• Support a welcoming, positive environment for students and parents.

Additional Responsibilities

• Stay current on trends and best practices in early childhood education and enrichment programming.

• Attend planning meetings as requested.

• Assist with special school events and initiatives related to Early Elementary programs.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.

Preferred Characteristics

The ideal candidate is:

• Passionate about early childhood education.

• Creative and innovative.

• Highly organized and detail-oriented.

• Collaborative and encouraging.

• Flexible and adaptable.

• A strong communicator.

• Committed to fostering joyful, engaging learning experiences.

• Dedicated to supporting the mission of Catholic education.

Why Join McDonell Area Catholic Schools?

As our Early Childhood Program Manager, you will have the opportunity to shape meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Your creativity and leadership will help build engaging programs that support children academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually while strengthening our partnership with families.