Preschool Director

Under the direction of the COO, the Preschool Director manages the day-to-day operations of its licensed Preschool site. The individual in this position will plan, direct, implement and evaluate the program to ensure it meets developmentally appropriate practices for children ages one to five, and afterschool age children. In addition, this individual will ensure that the Preschool supports the mission, values and goals of the YMCA of South Florida.

Essential Functions / Job Duties

• Oversee fiscal management, planning and administration of revenue and expenses.
• Oversee the collection of program fees and ensure payment records are accurate.
• Ensure that the arrangement, appearance, decor, and environment of the classroom are conducive to learning and the safety of the children.
• Evaluate program design, staffing capacity and needs, collaborations, and family involvement.
• Guide teachers in planning and implementing weekly curriculum and activities that foster the social, physical, emotional and cognitive development of children.
• Guide teachers in assessing children using Creative Curriculum and Ages and Stages assessment tools.
• Communicate with parents regarding activities, progress, achievements, classroom behaviour, and/or concerns.
• Oversee parent/teacher conferences.
• Establish and maintain positive relations with childcare agencies.
• Recruit, supervise and oversee professional development of staff.
• Maintain accurate staff files, including training and background screening requirements.
• Maintain accurate nutrition program meal count and required forms.
• Ensure that appropriate discipline procedures are followed in accordance with YMCA guidelines.
• Ensure that all incidents/accidents are reported in accordance with the YMCA’s Risk Management procedures.
• Keep current accounts receivable with no more than 3% uncollected.
• Has MOD role as needed for YMCA.

YMCA COMPETENCIES

• Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the YMCA’s efforts for all stakeholders. Implements effective systems to develop volunteers at program and fundraising leadership levels.
• Collaboration: Develops strategies to ensure staff and volunteers reflect the community. Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the YMCA. Communicates for influence to attain buy-in and support of goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.
• Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves members and community in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.
• Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. Anticipates challenges that can sidetrack or derail growth and personal learning. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities / Position Requirements

• Associate's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education and/or related field; a minimum of three years’ experience as an on-site childcare director in a licensed childcare facility.
• Florida Department of Education/Early Childhood Professional Certificate or National Child Development Associate Credential.
• Florida Director Credentials.
• VPK endorsement or Exemption.
• Creative Curriculum training.
• Knowledge of the accreditation process.
• Bilingual, English and Spanish, a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to interact with individuals at all levels.
• Experience working with a diverse community, a plus.
• Infant/Toddler First Aid & CPR certificate, a plus.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel.

Work Environment

Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by a staff member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Teachers work in classroom and outdoor environments. This position requires the ability to lift children ranging in weight, up to 50lbs.

Physical Demands

Being in good physical health with full range of body motion, including manual and finger dexterity and eye/hand coordination. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range. Occasionally requires working under stressful conditions or working irregular hours.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Employment at the YMCA is at will. It is purely voluntary, based upon the consent of both the Association and the staff members. No expressed or implied contractual rights should be inferred from this job description. As a condition of employment, you will be required to submit to and satisfactorily clear a thorough Level II fingerprinting background screening. As a Drug-Free Workplace, all new hires must successfully complete a drug test. Please note Medical Marijuana cards do not exempt you from successfully passing your drug test.

The YMCA of South Florida is committed to the policy of Equal Opportunity prohibiting discrimination in the workplace because of race, colour, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age or disability. Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.