What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Director position at New City Early Learning Academy?
Program Director | Early Childhood Center
Position Summary
The Program Director provides operational leadership for New City Early Learning Academy, a licensed Christian early childhood education center serving children ages birth through five years with a licensed capacity of 69 children.
The Program Director creates an environment where children flourish, families feel known and cared for, teachers are supported and developed, and the ministry operates with excellence. This role is responsible for the daily leadership of the center, ensuring compliance with Kansas licensing requirements while advancing New City's mission of helping people know Jesus and take their next step.
The Program Director leads with humility, integrity, strong organizational skills, and a heart for children and families.
Essential Responsibilities
Spiritual & Ministry Leadership
- Model a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and support the mission and values of New City Church.
- Foster a Christ-centered culture where children experience God's love every day.
- Encourage and shepherd teachers in integrating biblical truth into everyday learning.
- Build meaningful relationships with children, families, and staff.
- Pray regularly for children, families, and employees.
Leadership & Staff Development
- Recruit, interview, hire, onboard, and retain high-quality staff.
- Supervise, coach, evaluate, and encourage teachers and support staff.
- Provide ongoing feedback and professional development.
- Maintain appropriate classroom coverage and staffing schedules.
- Build a healthy team culture marked by trust, communication, accountability, and encouragement.
- Address performance concerns promptly and professionally.
Program Operations
- Oversee all daily operations of the center.
- Ensure compliance with Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) licensing regulations.
- Maintain all required licensing documentation and records.
- Ensure compliance with CACFP requirements, when applicable.
- Maintain accurate attendance, enrollment, and child records.
- Oversee health and safety procedures.
- Ensure classrooms are safe, organized, and developmentally appropriate.
Family Engagement & Enrollment
- Welcome and build relationships with prospective and current families.
- Conduct enrollment tours.
- Communicate regularly with families regarding their child's development and center activities.
- Resolve parent concerns professionally and compassionately.
- Maintain strong enrollment through exceptional customer service and community engagement.
- Support family retention through intentional relationship building.
Financial & Administrative Leadership
- Manage the center within the approved operating budget.
- Monitor tuition collection and enrollment reporting.
- Approve purchases and maintain expense documentation.
- Review staff time records and submit payroll accurately and on time.
- Work closely with the Director regarding budgeting, staffing, enrollment, and strategic planning.
- Utilize Microsoft Office and childcare management software effectively.
Educational Excellence
- Support teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
- Ensure classrooms meet quality standards and licensing expectations.
- Observe classrooms regularly and provide coaching.
- Encourage continuous improvement throughout the program.
Qualifications
Required
- Meets all qualifications required by the State of Kansas to serve as a Licensed Child Care Center Director.
- Minimum five years of experience in early childhood education.
- Minimum two years of leadership or supervisory experience.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop staff.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and technology.
- CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
- Successfully complete all required background checks and health assessments.
Preferred
- Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, Child Development, or related field.
- Experience leading a licensed childcare center.
- Experience with CACFP.
- Experience with childcare management software.
- Experience working in a faith-based early childhood program.
What We're Looking For
The ideal Program Director is:
- Passionate about Jesus and young children
- A confident and encouraging leader
- Organized and detail-oriented
- Calm under pressure
- An excellent communicator
- A team builder
- A servant leader who values excellence and relationships equally
Pay: $40,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $40,000 - $50,000