Academy Director

Boys and Girls Club of the Northern Plains•Yankton, SD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

As the Academy Director at a Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains (BGCNP) licensed site, the role involves overseeing the daily operations and managing budget and programming to ensure high-quality, age-appropriate activities for our members. Responsible for engaging with parents and Club members to address concerns regarding youth behaviors, Club events, and other related matters. Additionally, oversee the recruitment and onboarding process for new academy staff. Uphold the mission of the Boys & Girls Club and ensure that all employees do the same.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or Human Development
Two-year degree in Early Childhood Education
Valid Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or similar recognized credential
Certification in a specific child-learning philosophy (e.g., Montessori) plus at least one year of experience in a licensed childcare setting
Child Development Technician diploma
Four years of verifiable experience in a licensed childcare center or school-age childcare program
Experience working with youth of ages Preschool through 12th Grade
Management/Supervisory Experience
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Positive attitude
Strong communication skills with families, staff, school administration, and community partner
Comfort working with a school-hosted, offsite environment and collaborating with school leadership
Experience with state childcare licensing

Responsibilities

Ensure compliance with licensing requirements, including ratios, documentation, programming, etc.
Lead discipline and guidance for youth with behavioral challenges and assist with creating and implementing youth success plans.
Create and implement membership outreach strategies.
Ensure proper staffing and oversight of the morning (5:30 am – the start of school) and afternoon program (after school – 6:00 pm).
Ensure Unit staff implement the 5 Key Elements for Positive Youth Development.
Exhibit the Club Values of excellence, impact-driven, teamwork, and good character.
Continually evaluate Academy programs, report results according to established deadlines and address the needs of Academy members.
Ensure Academy policies of behavior, special needs, youth success plans, and safety are created and followed per Club policies and procedures.
Build relationships with parents of the organization through parent orientation, phone calls, e-mails, daily communication, etc.
Interview, hire, supervise, evaluate, and discipline Academy employees as assigned.
Execute special programming events.
Manage Academy budget and make fiscally responsible purchases. Assist with budget tracking in the priority outcomes of Academic Success, Good Character and Leadership, and Healthy Lifestyles.
Implement and track grant programs as assigned.
Facilitate and attend mandatory Academy training, including the monthly all-staff meetings.
Collaborate with community groups to enhance services.
Understand, implement, and demonstrate behavior management principles and other youth treatment modalities, per the Club training and values of fun, supportive relationships, recognition, opportunities and expectations, and safety. Must be able to provide leadership, on-the-spot and reflective feedback, and supervision to assigned employees to do the same.
Other duties as assigned. BGCNP reserves the right to change responsibilities and tasks as needed.