Center Director - 26/27 SY

ChanceLight Programs•Elgin, IL

4d•$46,000 - $49,000

About The Position

Ombudsman Educational Services , a growing, dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope, is seeking a Center Director to join our award-winning Alternative Education team for the 2026-2027 School Year and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation, encourages creative expression and offers limitless potential for personal and professional satisfaction! If you thrive in a dynamic, student-centered, and results-driven environment, are inspired by the mission of alternative education, and bring strategic leadership, resilience, and a collaborative spirit — We Should Talk! As the Center Director , you are responsible for fostering an environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. You will lead program operations with a focus on instructional excellence, staff development, student success, and strong community partnerships. By ensuring safe, effective, and innovative learning environments, you will drive achievement and promote positive outcomes for both students and staff.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in education or a closely related field of study.
Licensed currently or in the process of obtaining an IL state professional educator (PEL) credential.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company approved crisis management training.
Minimum 1yr prior educational leadership experience, preferably in an alternative, special education and/or behavioral health program setting.
Prior experience and/or knowledge in alternative educational services for at-risk students with diverse needs at various levels.
Effective management skills and comprehensive knowledge of administrative and school operations, functions, and compliance requirements.
Prior experience and highly knowledgeable in the development, assessment, and management of curriculum, content areas and instruction.
Prior experience and highly knowledgeable in working with students with individualized education plans (IEP's).
Proficiency in providing motivation and having critical conversations with students that help move them toward realistic goals.
Proven ability to build effective relationships with students, parents, teachers and community and/or district partners.
Advanced skill in providing training, professional development and/or coaching to teachers and education staff.
In depth knowledge of crisis management systems and intervention procedures.
Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem solving, and performance motivation ability.
Knowledge of relevant technology including experience with instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry and basic office equipment.
Skilled leader who exhibits the characteristics of servant leadership, looking to the needs of the team and seeking to help solve problems and promote personal development.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or higher in educational leadership or a closely related field of study preferred.
Licensed currently or in the process of obtaining an IL state administrators endorsement preferred.

Responsibilities

Providing vision and leadership to support student achievement and effective site operations by supervising staff, implementing performance management systems, and promoting professional growth.
Participating in recruitment and hiring processes to build and sustain a high-performing site team.
Providing staff supervision by coaching, mentoring, and developing employees while monitoring performance and fostering continuous improvement.
Ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment by monitoring site operations, addressing/reporting incidents, and enforcing safety protocols.
Maintaining compliance with state, district, and contractual requirements, and ensuring all staff are fully knowledgeable of success criteria and regulations.
Representing the program at community, district, and local levels to strengthen partnerships and promote the organization’s mission.
Instructing, monitoring, and evaluating teachers and students in the use of curriculum, instructional strategies, and learning tools to ensure fidelity and effectiveness.
Guiding teachers in the development of classroom schedules, student data systems, and transition plans to ensure alignment with individual student goals.
Consulting with and supporting teachers in building student skills in social development, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Maintaining accurate and complete records of student progress in compliance with legal, company, and district policies.
Compiling and analyzing assessment data to monitor student growth, inform instructional practices, and drive targeted interventions.
Modeling and promoting instructional strategies that facilitate active learning experiences and align with the organization’s educational vision.
Promoting positive student behavior by implementing consistent practices, applying policies fairly, and supporting restorative or disciplinary interventions when necessary.
Providing counseling, encouragement, and guidance to students experiencing academic or personal challenges.
Participating in accreditation and quality assurance processes to ensure the site consistently meets or exceeds performance standards.
Keeping current with research-based practices and organization-wide initiatives, including professional development in behavior management and instructional best practices.
Performing additional duties as assigned to support the overall success of students, staff, and the program.