Under the direction of the Senior Program Director of Childcare, the Early Learning Center Coordinator will organize, and lead a comprehensive thematic-based education curriculum focusing on literacy, learning through play, and Kindergarten readiness. The Early Learning Center Coordinator will provide day-to-day direction and supervision of assigned program areas and staff, ensuring that all programs operate in a quality manner consistent with both YMCA and OCFS guidelines. Under the direction of the Senior Program Director, the Early Learning Center Coordinator will assist in the development and preparation of activities for special center events and summer camp opportunities. Employment is contingent upon the incumbent clearing all NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) licensing requirements; these requirements include fingerprinting, background screening and clearance on the State Central Register (SCR) and Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCL) within the first 30-days of employment. Prior to being assigned to their position, the incumbent is required to complete an initial medical statement and tuberculin test. If the incumbent previously worked in a Child/Day Care setting, a prior medical statement and tuberculin test may be accepted if dated within 12-months preceding the date of the application.
- Plans and implements a dynamic preschool program at Dewitt Community Church; Develop preschool curriculm for ages 3 to 5 years old focusing on literacy, academic preparedness, and play based learning.
- Oversees implementation of YMCA School Age Child Care curriculum in our before and after school programs for children ages 3 to 12 years old.
- Ensures programs are of the highest quality possible; and expand program growth to meet the community needs.
- Monitors budgets related to assigned area. Ensures program operates within budget, monitoring income and expenses; ensures that program fees are collected.
- Promotes and advertises the assigned program areas recruiting new participants; create flyers and brochures, attends community events; ensures community awareness of the available programs.
- Maintains program areas and equipment in an orderly and safe manner, according to Association and YMCA standards. Plans and coordinates maintenance and repair of facilities and equipment as required in assigned areas.
- Maintains proper records and department files in accordance with the Office of Children and Family Services, Department of Social Services, and the YMCA as required.
- Cultivates relationships with parents and members to develop quality programs that are consistent with the mission and values.
- Communicates with parents and explains the program’s policies, fees, regulations and curriculum. Also deals with parental concerns and questions and is responsible for conveying any policy changes to parents.
- Responds to all agency, parent and community inquiries and complaints in a timely manner.
- Accepts responsibility for ensuring that each site is in full compliance with all safety requirements.
- Assists Senior Program Director with interviewing, hiring, training, supervising, developing, scheduling and directing staff and volunteers in assigned areas; creating and fostering a staff environment that is positive, professional and member focused, ensuring excellence in member satisfaction at all times.
- Assists in leading comprehensive staff training for preschool and childcare providers; ensure all staff maintain their required certifications.
- Ensures preparation of all required staff reports, including payroll are processed accurately and submitted on time.
- Reviews and evaluates staff performance, develops strategies to motivate staff to develop competencies that support and achieve the Association and department goals. Ensures duties, responsibilities and accountabilities of all direct reports are defined and understood. Effectively communicates to staff the standards for performance.
- Develops and maintain positive relationships with church personnel, school personnel, children, parents and parent groups, members, staff and volunteers, and provides motivational support and guidance.
- Other duties as assigned by Senior Program Director.
- The incumbent must have proficient knowledge in child development and early education theories and practices and safe and appropriate activities for children.
- Excellent organizational and communications skills both verbal and written are essential to the success of this position.
- Must demonstrate excellent teaching and decision making skills.
- Brings to this position maturity, responsibility and a sincere interest in working with people.
- Possess a general knowledge and understanding of YMCA, its goals, and its mission.
- Possess knowledge of various resources for programming ideas and the skills to utilize that information in program implementation.
- Possess knowledge of age appropriate activities and expectations of early childhood including ages 2 to 6.
- Proficient computer skills.
- Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity to children’s needs.
- Be able to build esteem while ensuring a safe and secure environment.
- One year full-time teaching experience in a child day care center, family or group family day care home or other early childhood program and one year of experience supervising staff in a child care program or related field of work.