Preschool Center Manager - Head Start Program (NEW BUILDING AND GREAT PAY/BENEFITS)

LEO Inc•Lynn, MA

12d•$36 - $38

About The Position

The Preschool Center Manager is responsible for implementing program policies and procedures, delivering a high-quality program, and overseeing the overall operation of the center. The role requires knowledge and experience in Head Start or comparable child development programs, early childhood education, developmentally appropriate practice, and bilingual education. The manager supervises, mentors, and develops center staff; monitors teaching and classroom quality; and ensures that required records and documentation are complete. The role supports compliance with Head Start, Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (DEEC), USDA, and other applicable regulations, while prioritizing the health and safety of children and families. The manager also coordinates center operations, works with staff and families on program planning and engagement, and represents the agency in community settings.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
Must meet Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (DEEC) Director II qualifications.
Three years of experience providing direct supervision and program management specializing in Early Childhood Education.
Knowledge of DEEC regulations, Head Start Performance Standards, and the Head Start Act/OHS regulations.
Positive work ethic.
Strong time-management skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work a flexible schedule.
Ability to work efficiently and effectively and make frequent significant decisions to ensure the health and safety of children and families.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment while prioritizing and determining workload.

Responsibilities

Hire, mentor, and coach center staff; conduct bi-monthly and annual evaluations; and approve timesheets, leave, and reimbursement requests.
Ensure Head Teachers complete required record-keeping documentation.
Train and work with teaching staff to improve performance on CLASS, ITERS or ECERS, and QRIS tools.
Conduct ongoing observations of teachers, including curriculum, presentation, relationships, classroom rapport, procedures, and CLASS domains.
Hold documented supervision meetings with each Lead Teacher twice monthly covering observations, policies and procedures, teamwork, professional development plans, CLASS, ITERS or ECERS, QRIS, and Ounce Scale or Work Sampling.
Create professional development plans for teachers based on their educational and professional needs and observations.
Assist Lead Teachers with Assistant Teacher evaluations for Head Start.
Ensure staff comply with program policies, work collaboratively on case management, and document appropriately.
Maintain confidentiality in accordance with agency policy and legal requirements.
Prioritize safety in all job responsibilities and ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios; act as a classroom teacher in emergency situations.
Coordinate ongoing staff training with Managers and Trainers, including training required by EEC and mandatory training such as CPR, first aid, and 51A.
Complete assigned work when remote work is available and ensure staff complete detailed work logs.
Ensure compliance with OHS and EEC regulations, the Emergency Management Plan, and USDA, city, and state regulations.
Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential employee files in compliance with DEEC and OHS regulations.
Work efficiently and independently as well as in a team environment, prioritizing workload and making decisions to protect children and families.
Ensure service delivery aligns with LEO's mission statement.
Prepare and submit building and classroom maintenance requests based on observations and weekly Site Safety Checklists completed by classroom teachers.
Work with center staff on classroom management and program planning for individual children.
Plan and coordinate field trips for Head Start.
Maintain center inventory and order materials and supplies as needed.
Plan and facilitate center staff and parent meetings.
Ensure confidentiality of children's records.
Analyze and aggregate children's assessment outcomes to establish individualized plans and school readiness goals.
Provide frequent written and verbal feedback to administration staff, center staff, and families.
Attend trainings required by Head Start Performance Standards and EEC regulations, as well as trainings, conferences, and workshops assigned and approved by the immediate supervisor.
Identify educational opportunities that enhance Center and Head Start knowledge.
Work with teaching staff and family service workers to encourage parent involvement across program components.
Work cooperatively with the Family Engagement Specialist on family engagement.
Develop relationships with outside agencies to provide additional services.
Represent the agency in community boards, councils, advisory groups, and similar forums.
Perform other duties as assigned.