Director Head Start

Self Help Inc•Brockton, MA

24d•$110,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Self Help Inc. is currently looking for an experienced Head Start Director to join our team. Agency Profile Self Help, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Action Agency (CAA) created to help families and individuals stabilize and secure their lives through education, strategic assistance, and building opportunities in their communities. We provide a range of services for families and households across Southeastern Massachusetts. Job Summary The Head Start Director provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for all aspects of the Head Start Program in Brockton and surrounding communities in Massachusetts. This position is responsible for ensuring the high-quality delivery of comprehensive early childhood education, family engagement, health, and social services to eligible children and families in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards, federal and state regulations (including Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care - EEC), and the mission and goals of the program. The Director oversees all program operations, fiscal management, personnel, community partnerships, and ensures a strong focus on positive child outcomes and family well-being

Requirements

Must pass a criminal background check and other required clearances
Must have or be willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification
Must meet the physical requirements of the position, including the ability to lift and carry young children, bend, stoop, and actively engage with children
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation is required
Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with staff, families, community partners, and funding agencies
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
Commitment to the mission and goals of Head Start and a passion for serving low-income children and families in the Brockton community
Proficiency in computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and email
Experience working in a diverse, multicultural environment
Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Social Work, Public Administration, or a related field required.
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible leadership and management experience in early childhood education, human services, or a related field, preferably within a Head Start or similar program
Demonstrated knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, federal and state regulations (including Massachusetts EEC licensing requirements), and best practices in early childhood education and family engagement
Strong fiscal management skills, including budget development, monitoring, and grant management experience
Proven experience in personnel management, supervision, and staff development
Excellent communication (written and verbal), interpersonal, and presentation skills

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred
Bilingual skills in English and Spanish or another language prevalent in the Brockton community
Familiarity with local community resources and agencies in Brockton, Massachusetts
Experience with data management and program evaluation systems
Ability to travel locally for meetings and program activities

Responsibilities

Provide overall leadership, direction, and management for all Head Start program components, including education, early childhood development, health, nutrition, family services, mental health, disabilities services, and parent involvement
Develop, implement, and monitor the program's strategic plan, annual goals, and objectives in alignment with Head Start Performance Standards and community needs
Ensure the program operates in compliance with all applicable federal, state (Massachusetts EEC), and local regulations, policies, and procedures
Foster a positive, collaborative, and inclusive program culture that values diversity and promotes teamwork among staff, families, and community partners
Oversee the development and implementation of program policies and procedures
Ensure the effective use of data for program planning, continuous quality improvement, and reporting
Develop and manage the program's annual budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with funding requirements
Oversee all financial operations, including grant management, budget development and monitoring, expenditure approval, and financial reporting
Ensure adherence to sound accounting practices and internal controls
Explore and secure additional funding opportunities through grant writing and community partnerships
Recruit, hire, supervise, and evaluate qualified program staff, ensuring adherence to personnel policies and procedures
Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development opportunities to staff to enhance their skills and knowledge
Foster a positive and supportive work environment that promotes staff retention and well-being
Ensure compliance with all labor laws and HR regulations
Establish and maintain a system for ongoing program monitoring and evaluation to ensure high-quality service delivery and continuous improvement
Utilize data from child assessments, family surveys, and program evaluations to inform program planning and decision-making
Lead the program's self-assessment process and the development of quality improvement plans
Ensure the implementation of developmentally appropriate and research-based curriculum and practices
Promote meaningful parent and family engagement in all aspects of the program, including program governance, volunteer activities, and educational opportunities
Develop and maintain strong collaborative relationships with community agencies, organizations, and resources in Brockton to enhance service delivery and leverage community support
Represent the Head Start program in local community meetings and initiatives
Ensure accurate and timely submission of all required reports to federal, state (Massachusetts EEC), and local funding agencies
Oversee the maintenance of accurate and confidential program records
Prepare for and manage program audits and reviews
Maintain effective communication and collaboration with the program's governing body or board of directors
Provide regular reports on program activities, progress towards goals, and financial status
Advocate for the needs of Head Start children and families at the local, state, and federal levels
Promote public awareness of the importance of early childhood education and the role of Head Start in the Brockton community