Senior Director - Office of Early Learning (Interim)

Wake County Public Schools•Cary, NC

18d•Hybrid

About The Position

Develops, administers, and coordinates early learning programs focused on families and children ages birth - age 5 offered by the Wake County Public Schools System (WCPSS). Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local program regulations and financial requirements. Establishes vision and comprehensive plan for a PreK-12 aligned system and ensures coordination across Preschool Programs, Project Enlightenment, and The Early Learning Center.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of theory and practice of early childhood
Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of state and federal guidelines applicable to Title I, NC Pre-K and special education preschool programs
Comprehensive knowledge of policies, procedures, programs, plans, and organizational relationships of the entire school system
Considerable knowledge of Microsoft Office, specifically, Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point; Google Apps
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
Effective time management and organizational skills
Ability to express facts and ideas in a clear, convincing, and organized manner
Ability to communicate effectively in both obtaining and furnishing information
Ability to collaborate and build strong relationships with community partners
Interactions may require considerable communication to obtain action, consent, agreement, or approval
Ability to independently resolve problems and to perform effectively in complex work situations
Ability to develop and implement strategic objectives that improve educational outcomes and align with school system mission and goals
Ability to collaborate with and influence others, build trusting relationships, and deliver projects on time and within budget
Ability to coach and mentor employees, including providing feedback
Ability to handle highly confidential material
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school system staff, external agencies, attorneys, parents, and the public.
Master's degree in education, administration, or related area
Four years of successful teaching experience
Five years of administrative and supervision experience
Five years of experience with fiscal and personnel management
Experience in child development and effective early intervention practices
Hold or be eligible for North Carolina Professional Educator's License in administrative license area of School Administrator-Principal or Curriculum Instructional Specialist
Must hold and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator’s license according to the State of NC requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing state and federal funds
Strong relationships skills
Experience with childcare licensure
Strong supervisions skills
Strong public relation skills

Responsibilities

Coordinates, supervises, and monitors district early learning programs and services.
Ensures alignment between early learning/pre-k with the district to ensure a PreK-12 system.
Manages local, state, and federal budgets.
Ensures that special education services, Title I, NC Pre-K, and grant programs meet legal mandates.
Collaborates with community partners to ensure quality early learning programming.
Develops and maintains long range plan for pre-k classrooms and early learning services.
Presents to Board of Education and community partners on early learning programs and services.
Coordinates and facilitates professional development for departmental staff.
Participates in the completion of required reports and documents for NC Department of Public Instruction.
Collaborates with principals in determining program locations in conjunction with facilities and student assignment.
Promotes school and community relations with agencies, individuals, and groups within the community regarding early education issues.
Assists central office and school staff in problem solving around issues.
Represents the school system on local, state, and national levels.
Serves on NC Pre-K Board and Wake Up and Read Leadership Team.
Oversees the assignment of special education, Title I Pre-K and NC Pre-K students.
Provides assistance to administrators, teachers and parents regarding early learning programs.
Collaborates with facility planning staff to ensure design and availability of appropriate space/facilities for preschool classrooms, Ready to Learn Centers, and instructional materials.
Performs other related duties, as assigned.