Assistant Director

Company DescriptionThe Early Childhood Academy is committed to providing high-quality and consistent care to every child and family. Our goal is to create a welcoming and secure environment where families feel at ease while their child is in our care. We also strive to offer meaningful employment opportunities to our staff.

Role DescriptionUnder the supervision of the Academy Director, the Assistant Director is responsible for maintaining a safe, welcoming, and fun environment for children, families, and employees. This includes understanding and executing DHS Rule 3, Early Childhood Academy policies, and health & safety guidelines required by MN Health Nurses and other health & safety professionals. Is responsible for the duties and responsibilities outlined below for day-to-day operations and program implementation. Additionally, the Assistant Director may be responsible for tasks or responsibilities designated and delegated by the Academy Director. In the Academy Director's absence, the Assistant Director will be the acting Director. The Assistant Director also serves in other Academy roles when needed, including but not limited to coverage and support in any/all classrooms. This position requires someone who is detail-orientated, self-motivated, reliable, and able to lead in a fast-paced, highly professional environment.

Duties and Responsibilities Record Keeping & Clerical: Maintains DHS records (employee files, child files, drills, crib inspections, etc.) as outlined by the Academy Director.Responsible for ECA documentation and spreadsheets delegated by the Director necessary for the Academy's operations and success.Monitors supplies, food inventory, and purchases.Assists in the planning, implementation, and attendance of monthly staff meetings. Plans and hosts Academy events and holidays. Involved in community events and chamber meetings when possible. Postings: Post menus, newsletters, and lesson plans to Academy bulletin boards and to Child Pilot (communication app). Classroom Support & Scheduling: Supports classrooms through modeling and coaching.Ensures daily schedules, routines, curriculum, and activities are being carried out within the classrooms, and are developmentally appropriate. Assist Director with staffing patterns and scheduling. Covers in classrooms to maintain ratio. Managing Employees:Assist the Director in hiring and onboarding.Ensures Academy meets payroll % goals by appropriately staffing Academy and monitoring when employees can be cut/monitor overtime hours.Assist with staff motivation, appreciation, and retentionEnrollment & Family Relations: Assist the Director in inquiries, tours, and new enrollment processes.Identifies Academies FTE & enrollment availability using the Enrollment Spreadsheet. Plans and provides support with children’s transition to next classroom. Drives enrollment through marketing strategies and techniques. Health & Safety: Maintains a clean and sanitary facility. Maintains building function and operations by partnering with Director and other professionals. (winterization, plumbing, appliance maintenance, technology). Observes & enforces policies and procedures. Replenish classroom safety kits and backpacks. Monitors and helps with additional cleaning practices such as laundry, dishes, bathroom clean up, and more as needed.

Supervisory & Professional ExpectationsComplete and pass DHS background checkUp to date Develop membership.Adheres to all program policies and leads by example.Follows all MN DHS Rule 3 Rules and RegulationsStrong relational skills: Provides excellent guest service for employees, existing families, touring/inquiring families, vendors, supervisors, owners, and executives, etc.Will maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the Academy. (employees, families & children, ECA business and financial, etc.)Actively participates in on-going personal professional development to ensure continuous program quality improvement.Flexibility & Reliability: Understands that your work schedule may fluctuate or change to meet Academy needs.Positively takes direction and feedback from Executive and Ownership team.Strong problem-solving skills and shows initiative to provide resolutions.

Environmental & Physical FactorsCan lift and carry up to 50 lbs.Can bend and squat to engage with children of all ages.Work is primarily performed indoors, but some work is required to be done outdoors in varying types of weather.

QualificationsExperience in early childhood education and/or childcare administrationStrong leadership and management skillsExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsKnowledge of licensing regulations and complianceAbility to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environmentStrong organizational and problem-solving abilitiesProficiency in administrative tasks and computer skillsBachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related fieldCertifications in CPR, First Aid, and/or Child Development Associate (CDA) are a plus

This description serves as an example of job duties, functions, and expectations but may not include the full scope of work. Additional duties and responsibilities may be delegated by the Academy Director, Executive Director, or as the Academy needs change.

Reports to: Academy DirectorSalary: Financial packages to be determined based on experience and outlined in individual offer letters.