Assistant Director - Early Childhood

Position Title: Assistant Director of Early Childhood Funding Source: GSRP Reports to: Principal

Qualifications

: Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred. Minimum of 5 years of experience in early childhood education (ages 6 weeks through pre-kindergarten), including experience in licensed childcare or early learning program settings. Experience working in K–5 elementary school environments, with an understanding of early elementary instructional practices and developmental continuity from birth through grade 5.

Minimum of 3 years of leadership, coaching, or supervisory experience in an early childhood or elementary education setting. Knowledge of infant/toddler and preschool development, evidence-based early childhood curricula, and best practices in developmentally appropriate instruction. Familiarity with childcare licensing regulations, Head Start/Early Head Start performance standards, and GSRP/state pre-kindergarten guidelines.

Requirements

Familiarity with budget development, grant management, and fiscal oversight within early childhood programs. Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills. Proficiency with student information systems, data tools, and digital platforms used in early childhood settings.

Valid driver's license and ability to travel between district sites as required. Position Description: The Assistant Director of Early Childhood provides strategic leadership, programmatic oversight, and instructional guidance for the district's early childhood programs, serving children from six weeks through pre-kindergarten, as well as supporting the continuity of high-quality education into K–5 settings. This position is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing all aspects of the district's early learning programs, including licensed childcare, infant/toddler care, preschool, and pre-kindergarten, while ensuring alignment with elementary school instructional priorities.

, reflect evidence-based practices, and operate within approved budgets. Working collaboratively with district administrators, building principals, community agencies, and families, the Assistant Director develops program vision and policy, provides instructional coaching, and fosters seamless transitions for children and families from early childhood into the elementary years. The ideal candidate is deeply knowledgeable about child development from birth through early elementary, demonstrates strong leadership and communication skills, and is committed to providing every child with a safe, nurturing, and high-quality educational foundation.

Provide strategic leadership and programmatic oversight for all early childhood programs, including licensed childcare (ages 6 weeks through preschool) and pre-kindergarten. Ensure all early childhood programs comply with state childcare licensing regulations, NAEYC accreditation standards (if applicable), Early Head Start/Head Start performance standards, GSRP guidelines and district policies. Develop, implement, and monitor evidence-based early childhood curricula and instructional frameworks across all program levels.

Conduct regular classroom observations, provide instructional coaching, and support continuous improvement for early childhood teachers and staff. Collaborate with K–5 building principals and instructional coaches to align early childhood programming with elementary curriculum, assessment, and transition practices. Support the development and implementation of vertical alignment tools, transition plans, and shared professional development for early childhood and elementary staff.