Early Learning Center Director

The Early Learning Center (ELC) is a gospel-centered ministry of Riverside Baptist Church in Helena, AL.  Its primary purpose is to share the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ through a Bible-based curriculum, music, crafts and teaching while caring safely and securely for children ages 6-weeks to 4-K.

General Position Description:

The ELC Director is responsible for the health, safety and quality of the faith-based Pre-K education, for all children within the center’s care.  The director is directly accountable for the overall operational management in accordance with well-established guidelines, including curriculum development, staff and facilities management, financial management, legal and DHR compliance, and long-range planning. The director ensures that the needs of the students and goals of the center are met appropriately.

Key Responsibilities:

·       Establish short-term and long-term vision for the center.  Manage adherence to quality standards in accordance with the vision and with required state and local requirements.

·       Ensure the highest level of safety and well-being of every child in the ministry.

·       Develop general preschool education curriculum; collaborate with staff to develop positive learning activities; Provide Bible-based curriculum and program to include chapel and classroom Bible study.

·       Hire and supervise all ELC staff members, including providing new employee orientations, training and regular feedback and evaluations.

·       Manage adherence to all required state, local and DHR regulations.

·       Maintain records in accordance with established enrollment procedures and guidelines.

·       Maintain communications with parents of current and prospective children through direct conversation, newsletters and parent handbook.

·       Maintain positive relationships with regulatory agencies (DHR, Health Dept, etc.); ensure legal and financial compliance.

·       Oversee all office functions including enrollment, re-enrollment, payments, financials, human resources, staff supervision and purchasing.

·       Develop and update written documents for parent and staff policy guidelines.

·       Resolve conflicts including corrective action when necessary to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

·       Develops weekly staff work schedule within the budget constraints.

·       Manage budget planning and review annually.

·       Provide leadership and supervision for staff working in the center (approx. 16-18 employees).

·       Lead regular Professional Development opportunities and staff meetings for employees.

·       Maintain a Personal Professional Development plan to ensure continuous quality improvements.

·       Works directly with the Discipleship & Missions Pastor regarding outreach ministry, financials, facilities and all other related issues.

·       Participate collaboratively as a member of the Mission Outreach Ministries leadership team, including attending meetings when required and maintaining open and positive communication.

·       Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Educational Requirements:

·       Must be a strong Christian with a vibrant relationship with the Lord.

·       Must be able to lead others in a Christian setting and be an example for others.

·       Actively attending a Bible believing church in the local area.

·       Bachelor’s or Associate degree in early childhood education or related field of study is preferred or multiple years’ experience in the field.

·       Must have at least 5 years’ experience in childhood education as a lead teacher, assistant director or director.

·       At least 2 years of experience working in a supervisory position in an early childhood education setting, with a minimum 15 credits in ECE.

·       Effective verbal and written communications skills, strong technology skills.

·       Pediatric First Aid/CPR (may be obtained after employment).

·       Ability to work well with others (staff, parents and children) and to foster a good and wholesome team environment.

·       A strong understanding of child development.

·       Familiar with finance and budgeting procedures.

·       A heart for the Lord with excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

·       Understands and exhibits the Fruit of the Spirit daily (Galatians 5:22-23).

Physical Requirements:

·       Safely lift a child with total weight of 40-50 pounds.

·       Conduct activities involving substantial standing, walking and moderate sitting, stooping, knelling, bending, crawling, and reaching on a frequent basis.

·       Must be able stoop, bend and kneel on the floor without assistance.

·       Must be able walk and lead field trips within the community riding on a bus.

·       Must be able to push and pull strollers, playground and office equipment.

·       Participate in routine conversations in person or via telephone and distinguish telephone, alarms and other auditory tones.