Preschool Assistant Director

Open Space Early Learning Center•Chicago, IL

12h

About The Position

Open Space Early Learning Center is seeking an Assistant Director with a proven record of providing excellent care and education for young children, a caring and passionate approach to coaching teachers, and a strong commitment to advancing early education. The Assistant Director supports the center’s daily operations and acts as Director when the Director is absent. The role includes opening and/or closing the center, supervising and advising staff, communicating with families, supporting classroom programming and curriculum, managing facilities and office activities, and helping ensure compliance with DCFS, City of Chicago, and other licensing requirements.

Requirements

Associate’s degree that includes 21 Early Childhood Education credit hours, as required to meet basic DCFS requirements.
Ability to relate positively with young children.
Strong leadership and management skills.
Knowledge of the social, emotional, and creative needs of young children.
Previous teaching or assistant teaching experience in a public or private school system, quality preschool, or childcare center.
Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. in connection with handling children, facilitating programs, ensuring child safety, and responding to potential emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Gateways Level 1 Director Credential or 3 credit hours in administration or leadership.
Certification, a degree, or college-level coursework related to early childhood, preschool, or elementary education.

Responsibilities

Act as Director in the Director’s absence and help ensure daily center operations run smoothly.
Open or close the center and ensure the safety and security of children, families, and teachers.
Supervise and advise staff.
Communicate with families and maintain positive relationships with children, staff, parents, and co-workers.
Ensure the center meets DCFS, City of Chicago, and other licensing agency standards and regulations; become familiar with DCFS 407 and City of Chicago health requirements.
Support teachers in creating classroom programming and curriculum.
Manage center facilities.
Assist with creating and implementing policies as needed.
Assist with planning and executing parent engagement events and initiatives.
Manage files and ensure documentation is up to date according to DCFS, State, City, Open Space, and other licensing agency requirements.
Perform daily office duties, including reading mail and email, making and receiving phone calls, filing documents, managing database systems, and overseeing office activities.
Meet deadlines and manage time and attendance reliably.
Follow Open Space and safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
Follow legal and ethical standards related to job responsibilities.