Associate Executive Director, Education Services

YMCA Central Maryland•Baltimore, MD

About The Position

The Associate Executive Director, Education, provides leadership and oversight for the education component of the Y Head Start program. This role directly supervises Head Start Site Directors and Early Learning Coaches and is responsible for planning, implementing, monitoring, and continuously improving curriculum and instructional practices across all program sites. The AED, Education ensures that curriculum, instructional materials, learning environments, and staff practices align with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), the mission of the YMCA, and evidence-based early childhood education best practices. This leader collaborates closely with service area directors, consultants, and internal partners to ensure strong child outcomes for children of all abilities, including those with disabilities and developmental needs. This position is primarily responsible for the following core functions and performs other duties as assigned: Planning Program Implementation Family Engagement Communication and Service Coordination Record Keeping and Reporting Ongoing Monitoring/Supervision and Self-Assessment Human Resources and Supervision Program Governance and Leadership ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Program Leadership & Curriculum Oversight Collaborate with Head Start Site Directors, Early Learning Coaches, and service area leadership to implement the designated curriculum and ensure compliance with federal Head Start requirements and the Y’s mission. Review externally developed curriculum content and resources and collaborate with vendors to ensure materials, supplies, and equipment are developmentally appropriate and aligned to program standards. Provide leadership and guidance to ensure the curriculum is implemented with fidelity in classrooms and home learning environments. Guide Head Start Site Directors and key associates in designing high-quality classroom environments that support development and learning. In collaboration with Head Start Site Directors, plan and coordinate orders for classroom supplies, materials, and equipment, as well as field trip logistics (including transportation). Associate Recruitment, Training & Supervision Lead recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training for Early Learning Coaches and Head Start Site Directors. Support Site Directors with recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training of teachers, assistant teachers, resource aides, and substitutes, as needed. Coordinate and support tiered professional development and coaching systems to strengthen instructional quality and classroom practices. Coordinate associate training and learning opportunities in collaboration with consultants and service area leaders. Participate in developing the Training and Technical Assistance (T/TA) budget. Provide input to Head Start Site Directors, based on classroom observations and documentation, during associate performance evaluations as needed. Facilitate and participate in program and education-related meetings. CORE FUNCTION AREAS Planning Implement education service area plans, policies, and procedures. Develop, deliver, or coordinate training as needed, including pre-service training, ongoing training, and training for families, volunteers, and partners. Ensure the written curriculum includes: Clear goals for children’s development and learning Experiences through which children achieve goals Guidance for associates and parents to support learning at home and in the classroom Materials and resources needed to implement the curriculum effectively Program Implementation Collaborate with Head Start Site Directors and Early Learning Coaches to ensure teachers: Provide developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate learning experiences. Implement experiential learning activities that support intellectual and emotional development. Maintain print-rich environments that promote literacy, numeracy, social skills, and problem-solving. Use positive guidance and developmentally appropriate discipline to support school readiness. Establish consistent daily classroom routines. Integrate Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) into classroom practices in collaboration with the Site Director and Early Intervention Specialist. Conduct ongoing child assessment and support teachers with assessment implementation as needed. Gather anecdotal notes and enter required documentation into assessment software. Interpret observation data and support teachers in setting individual child goals aligned with child development. Monitor completion of developmental screening within 45 days of enrollment and review results to ensure timely follow-up. Ensure indoor and outdoor learning spaces are stocked with developmentally appropriate materials. Ensure classroom observations are scheduled, conducted, and documented. Participate in team meetings, home visits, and community events as requested. Family Engagement Partner with the Associate Executive Director of Child and Family Services to ensure families understand the program’s curriculum and child development approach. Ensure home learning activities align with family-identified goals. Support teaching associates in developing systems that help families strengthen child observation skills. Share child assessment information with teaching staff to support effective home learning planning and parent training opportunities. Promote and support family volunteerism and participation in training activities. Provide opportunities for families to better understand assessment results and strategies to support their children. Communication & Service Coordination Participate in regular team, associate, and Student Support Team meetings to ensure coordinated services. Attend local, state, and regional initiatives as required to represent Y Head Start. Collaborate with the Early Intervention Specialist, Site Directors, teaching associates, families, and consultants to support referral, evaluation, and services for children with suspected disabilities. Ensure IEP goals are embedded in classroom lesson plans in collaboration with the appropriate team members. Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Build knowledge of community education resources and transitions. Collaborate with the Data Manager to analyze child outcomes and program quality results at the center-wide and regional level and provide recommendations to leadership. Participate in required training and program activities, including occasional evening events. Recordkeeping & Reporting Maintain effective documentation and tracking systems for the education service area, ensuring confidentiality of child and family records. Maintain systems for coordinating field trips, equipment purchases, and classroom ordering. Ensure teachers understand and document allowable in-kind contributions and other non-federal share requirements. Ongoing Monitoring & Continuous Quality Improvement Implement a continuous monitoring system aligned with service area plans. Utilize available monitoring tools, including video surveillance, when appropriate to support safety, quality improvement, and associate performance. Ensure timely completion and documentation of all required associate training and professional development plans in accordance with Y policies, HSPPS, and state childcare licensing requirements. Ensure continuous participation and compliance with Maryland EXCELS (QRIS) Level 5 and maintain tracking systems for teacher credentialing. Collaborate with the Data Manager to analyze program-wide education and child outcome data and recommend improvements. Coordinate quarterly evaluation of education services in partnership with the Senior Executive Director, including self-assessment and monitoring data collection. Support annual self-assessment and ongoing monitoring related to health, safety, education, and child/family security. Ensure ongoing compliance with HSPPS and all federal, state, and local regulations. Human Resources Meet with direct reports at least quarterly to provide structured, ongoing feedback aligned with individual development plans. Review and approve PTO requests weekly. Submit performance evaluations by the required deadlines. Support direct reports in developing growth plans using reflective supervision and positive role modeling. Lead and support recruitment for open positions and participate in interview selection processes, with final approval by the Senior Executive Director, Head Start. Implement policies fairly and consistently, recommending revisions as needed. Ensure recruitment and selection practices align with EEO requirements, legal hiring standards, and Y Human Resources (HR) policies. Consult with HR to implement corrective action, including termination, in an objective and compliant manner. Program Governance & Leadership Lead with a mission-driven approach that supports Y’s strategic plan and the overall success of Y Head Start. Support innovation and manage change effectively by helping associates successfully implement organizational changes. Uphold all Y’s employment standards, including, but not limited to: confidentiality, mandated reporting, attendance and dependability, appropriate dress, customer service, safe work practices, and responsible use of program resources. Attend parent committees, Policy Council, and Board meetings as needed or requested. Ensure that associates and volunteers follow universal precautions and safety regulations to prevent occupational injuries and diseases. Develop strong collaborative partnerships with community organizations with a vested interest in providing services to children and families. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES Participate in meetings, conferences, trainings, and professional development workshops as assigned. Maintain confidentiality regarding associates and families. Serve as a mandated reporter per the Child Abuse and Neglect Policy. Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor. Maintain consistent attendance and reliability to ensure service continuity. Contribute positively to a collaborative and productive team environment. Demonstrate commitment to YMCA mission, core values, and policies in daily work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Child & Family Studies, or related field.
Minimum of three (3) years of Head Start operational experience required.
Strong working knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) required.
Ability to use program data and monitoring tools to forecast needs and support classroom improvement.
Strong technology skills and proficiency across common computer applications.
Ability to interpret curriculum and assessment data to improve child outcomes.
Advanced people leadership skills, including coaching and staff development.
Strong communication and presentation skills.
Highly effective organizational, analytical, and time-management skills.
Ability to supervise staff across varied roles and responsibilities.
Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to ascend and descend stairs.
Occasional outdoor activities.
Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds.
Must be able to successfully perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation, including: Using hands, arms, and fingers for routine work functions Talking and hearing effectively Using a computer regularly Sitting and standing for extended periods Lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds Entering and navigating all Y environments, including office spaces, classrooms, indoor/outdoor areas, and other program facilities
CPR and First Aid certification required.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Head Start experience preferred.
Experience implementing research-based curriculum across Infant/Toddler/Twos and Preschool preferred (Frog Street and Creative Curriculum preferred).
Practice-Based Coaching experience preferred.
Experience with SEFEL or Positive Behavior Support tools preferred.
Knowledge of NAEYC and MSDE accreditation processes preferred.
MSDE Teacher Credential Level 6 preferred.
Experience managing annual operating budgets within federal grant constraints preferred.
CLASS Reliability preferred.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with Head Start Site Directors, Early Learning Coaches, and service area leadership to implement the designated curriculum and ensure compliance with federal Head Start requirements and the Y’s mission.
Review externally developed curriculum content and resources and collaborate with vendors to ensure materials, supplies, and equipment are developmentally appropriate and aligned to program standards.
Provide leadership and guidance to ensure the curriculum is implemented with fidelity in classrooms and home learning environments.
Guide Head Start Site Directors and key associates in designing high-quality classroom environments that support development and learning.
In collaboration with Head Start Site Directors, plan and coordinate orders for classroom supplies, materials, and equipment, as well as field trip logistics (including transportation).
Lead recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training for Early Learning Coaches and Head Start Site Directors.
Support Site Directors with recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training of teachers, assistant teachers, resource aides, and substitutes, as needed.
Coordinate and support tiered professional development and coaching systems to strengthen instructional quality and classroom practices.
Coordinate associate training and learning opportunities in collaboration with consultants and service area leaders.
Participate in developing the Training and Technical Assistance (T/TA) budget.
Provide input to Head Start Site Directors, based on classroom observations and documentation, during associate performance evaluations as needed.
Facilitate and participate in program and education-related meetings.
Implement education service area plans, policies, and procedures.
Develop, deliver, or coordinate training as needed, including pre-service training, ongoing training, and training for families, volunteers, and partners.
Collaborate with Head Start Site Directors and Early Learning Coaches to ensure teachers Provide developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate learning experiences.
Implement experiential learning activities that support intellectual and emotional development.
Maintain print-rich environments that promote literacy, numeracy, social skills, and problem-solving.
Use positive guidance and developmentally appropriate discipline to support school readiness.
Establish consistent daily classroom routines.
Integrate Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) into classroom practices in collaboration with the Site Director and Early Intervention Specialist.
Conduct ongoing child assessment and support teachers with assessment implementation as needed.
Gather anecdotal notes and enter required documentation into assessment software.
Interpret observation data and support teachers in setting individual child goals aligned with child development.
Monitor completion of developmental screening within 45 days of enrollment and review results to ensure timely follow-up.
Ensure indoor and outdoor learning spaces are stocked with developmentally appropriate materials.
Ensure classroom observations are scheduled, conducted, and documented.
Participate in team meetings, home visits, and community events as requested.
Partner with the Associate Executive Director of Child and Family Services to ensure families understand the program’s curriculum and child development approach.
Ensure home learning activities align with family-identified goals.
Support teaching associates in developing systems that help families strengthen child observation skills.
Share child assessment information with teaching staff to support effective home learning planning and parent training opportunities.
Promote and support family volunteerism and participation in training activities.
Provide opportunities for families to better understand assessment results and strategies to support their children.
Participate in regular team, associate, and Student Support Team meetings to ensure coordinated services.
Attend local, state, and regional initiatives as required to represent Y Head Start.
Collaborate with the Early Intervention Specialist, Site Directors, teaching associates, families, and consultants to support referral, evaluation, and services for children with suspected disabilities.
Ensure IEP goals are embedded in classroom lesson plans in collaboration with the appropriate team members.
Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.
Build knowledge of community education resources and transitions.
Collaborate with the Data Manager to analyze child outcomes and program quality results at the center-wide and regional level and provide recommendations to leadership.
Participate in required training and program activities, including occasional evening events.
Maintain effective documentation and tracking systems for the education service area, ensuring confidentiality of child and family records.
Maintain systems for coordinating field trips, equipment purchases, and classroom ordering.
Ensure teachers understand and document allowable in-kind contributions and other non-federal share requirements.
Implement a continuous monitoring system aligned with service area plans.
Utilize available monitoring tools, including video surveillance, when appropriate to support safety, quality improvement, and associate performance.
Ensure timely completion and documentation of all required associate training and professional development plans in accordance with Y policies, HSPPS, and state childcare licensing requirements.
Ensure continuous participation and compliance with Maryland EXCELS (QRIS) Level 5 and maintain tracking systems for teacher credentialing.
Collaborate with the Data Manager to analyze program-wide education and child outcome data and recommend improvements.
Coordinate quarterly evaluation of education services in partnership with the Senior Executive Director, including self-assessment and monitoring data collection.
Support annual self-assessment and ongoing monitoring related to health, safety, education, and child/family security.
Ensure ongoing compliance with HSPPS and all federal, state, and local regulations.
Meet with direct reports at least quarterly to provide structured, ongoing feedback aligned with individual development plans.
Review and approve PTO requests weekly.
Submit performance evaluations by the required deadlines.
Support direct reports in developing growth plans using reflective supervision and positive role modeling.
Lead and support recruitment for open positions and participate in interview selection processes, with final approval by the Senior Executive Director, Head Start.
Implement policies fairly and consistently, recommending revisions as needed.
Ensure recruitment and selection practices align with EEO requirements, legal hiring standards, and Y Human Resources (HR) policies.
Consult with HR to implement corrective action, including termination, in an objective and compliant manner.
Lead with a mission-driven approach that supports Y’s strategic plan and the overall success of Y Head Start.
Support innovation and manage change effectively by helping associates successfully implement organizational changes.
Uphold all Y’s employment standards, including, but not limited to: confidentiality, mandated reporting, attendance and dependability, appropriate dress, customer service, safe work practices, and responsible use of program resources.
Attend parent committees, Policy Council, and Board meetings as needed or requested.
Ensure that associates and volunteers follow universal precautions and safety regulations to prevent occupational injuries and diseases.
Develop strong collaborative partnerships with community organizations with a vested interest in providing services to children and families.
Participate in meetings, conferences, trainings, and professional development workshops as assigned.
Maintain confidentiality regarding associates and families.
Serve as a mandated reporter per the Child Abuse and Neglect Policy.
Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Maintain consistent attendance and reliability to ensure service continuity.
Contribute positively to a collaborative and productive team environment.
Demonstrate commitment to YMCA mission, core values, and policies in daily work.