Head Start Director

Southern Seven Health Department•Ullin, IL

About The Position

The Head Start Director is responsible for assuring all Head Start program mandates, Performance Standards, and all applicable laws and regulations are being met. This position is responsible for the development, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the Head Start program. This position is a member of the Leadership Team and works and consults with the team to develop the structure of the program and to assure that the program is strategically positioned for the future.

Requirements

Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or approved related AND
A minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience and Head Start experience.
Effective oral and written communication skills
Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
Knowledge and use of modern office practices and procedures, including basic computer skills.
Knowledge and use of English language and grammar.
Knowledge and use of appropriate telephone etiquette.
Ability to carry detailed oral and written instructions.
Ability to plan, organize, and supervise work of others and encourage problem solving.
DCFS background/criminal check, DCFS Physical, Mandated Reporter, valid driver’s license & auto liability insurance, and DCFS Licensing required courses

Nice To Haves

Hepatitis B Vaccine, CPR/First Aide, and CLASS Reliable.

Responsibilities

Provides guidance and leadership to staff to ensure the program meets Head Start Performance Standards, school readiness goals, quality outcomes, and all other applicable laws and regulations.
Provides supervision to direct reports and meets with them on a regular schedule to share information, provide feedback, and conduct performance evaluations while gaining input from others as needed.
Plans and conducts monthly Site Supervisor meetings, Management meetings, and Service Team meetings.
Meets more frequently with Associate Site Supervisors to keep them updated on information shared in Site Supervisor & Management Team Meetings. Takes the lead with performance evaluations, interviewing, and disciplining of staff located at centers with an Associate Site Supervisor.
Reviews and approves all direct report time sheets, overtime, travel vouchers, and leave of absence requests and submits all forms to Payroll Department on a timely basis. Keeps Human Resources informed on potential Family Medical Leave or Extended Medical Leave requests or attendance issues.
Assumes an active role in the annual program self-assessment and assures remediation for any non-compliance areas and incorporates recommendations into planning for the improvement of the program.
Assumes an active role in the Community Assessment that is completed every five years and updated each year as required.
Participates in quarterly Head Start Safety Chairperson meetings.
Participates in weekly and monthly meetings with Maintenance Department to ensure all work orders are completed in a timely manner.
Leads planning meetings in which long and short-term goals for improvement are established and gains input and approval from the Policy Council and Board of Health.
Takes an active role with community partnerships and school districts in the community to foster collaboration with the Head Start program.
Investigates and resolves parent and community complaints about the program, seeking input from staff, parents, or the Board, as needed.
Develops the annual grant to HHS/Office of Head Start and applies for any special grants when available to acquire funds for identified needs. Provides information to the Regional Office/Program Specialist as requested in a timely manner.
Maintains a close working relationship with the Executive Director to evaluate high level decisions for the Head Start program.
Maintains a close working relationship with the Fiscal Officer to include but not limited to collaborating on the annual budget and monitoring expenditures and the non-federal share requirement.
Maintains a close working relationship with Human Resources to ensure appropriate staffing and to ensure that all policies and procedures are followed regarding hiring, terminating, grievances, and disciplining of staff according to applicable laws and regulations as well as S7HD Personnel Policies.
Assumes an active role in the Wage Comparability Study to ensure that all staff are compensated fairly and equitably in salary and benefits.
Maintains effective, appropriate communication with the Policy Council and the Board of Health including: attending all regular and special meetings, providing a written report for each meeting, providing oral reports and being responsive to questions and suggestions, and providing training for new members and refresher for veteran members regarding their roles and responsibilities for the Head Start program.
Facilitates the continuing professional development for all staff and provides and/or secures technical and training assistance for staff.
Consults with the Education Team to assure that all classrooms and playgrounds are well-equipped and that a comprehensive curriculum of instruction is used to ensure that children are prepared to enter school when exiting the program.
Consults with the ERSEA Specialist to assure full enrollment of the program and offers support and strategies to assist with this as needed.
Remains current in the field of Head Start by participating and attending regional and state meetings and trainings including but not limited to the Illinois Head Start Association.
Anticipates potential problems and implements preventive measures and solutions when appropriate.
Responsible for developing a partnership with parents and caregivers in the Head Start program and encourages each parent/caregiver to take in active role in their child’s Head Start experience.
Responsible for carrying out best practices for safety procedures concerning children, staff, families, and community individuals and for assessing current practices and finding ways and areas needing improvement.
Responsible for participating in activities and attitudes that promote positive public relations and positive image for the program and agency.
Complies and is familiar with the requirements of the policies and procedures adopted by Southern Seven Health Department as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).