Director of Early Childhood Education

The Merrimack Valley YMCA is looking for a dynamic cause driven leader to build and facilitate quality programs that inspire change-making youth. The core values that guide the YMCA in fulfilling the mission and goals are: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility.

General Function:

The Director of ECE will oversee all aspects of our Merrimack Valley YMCA State of MA Licensed Pre-school Program which could include two pre-school classrooms and one kindergarten classroom with a maximum license of 110 children. The Director of ECE is responsible for NAEYC Accreditation and State of MA Licensing Requirements, relations with collaborative partners, curriculum implementation, early literacy initiatives, financial oversight, and supervision of all staff and volunteers. The Director of ECE must represent the YMCA personally, professionally and in a manner in accordance with the Mission and Goals of the YMCA. By conducting themselves in a caring, responsible, honest and respectful manner the Director of ECE is a role model for staff, program families, and members.

The Director will help champion a culture of service excellence and support and advocate the mission and values of the YMCA.

Status: Exempt, full time….

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. To thrive in this role you must have a strong sense of compassion and understanding, and an interest in working directly with youth, and the ability to communicate effectively with children, education teams, and colleagues.

• Ensure Pre-school Program follows all state regulations and meets NAEYC Accreditation standards at all times.
• Implement Curriculum.
• Monitor enrollment and budget.
• Hire, supervise, train and educate teachers in program.

• Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field of study.
• At least 21 years of age and meet all State of MA EEC Director I requirements.
• Has attained demonstrated results in program development, quality, and growth.
• Demonstrated skills in supervision, training, program management, and budget development.
• Demonstrated skills in communication, customer service and organization.
• Demonstrated ability to work with collaborative partners.
• Must have good human relations’ and communication skills to facilitate positive relationships with staff, volunteers, parents, members and program participants.
• Knowledge of State of MA Child Care Regulations.
• Computer Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Certified in First Aid and CPR.

Advancing Our Mission and Cause: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the Y’s efforts for all stakeholders. Implements effective systems to develop volunteers at program, fundraising, and policy leadership levels. Secures resources and support for all philanthropic endeavors.

Building Relationships: Develops strategies to ensure staff and volunteers reflect the community. Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the Y. Serves as a community leader building collaborations based on trust and credibility to advance the Y’s mission and goals. Communicates for influence to attain buy-in and support of goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.

Leading Operations: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves members and community in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures, investment policies, and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.

Developing and Inspiring People: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Anticipates challenges that can sidetrack or derail growth and personal learning. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses emotional intelligence and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Salary Range :

$52,000 – $60,000 (depending on experience)

To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to Catherine Redard, Executive Director of Child Care and Methuen Branch, at credard@mvymca.org or mail to 129 Haverhill Street, Methuen MA 01844.

The Merrimack Valley Y appreciates our staff and provides a strong competitive salary and comprehensive benefits plan including quality health and dental insurance, vision, long & short term disability, 12% Retirement paid by Y once eligibility is met, free family membership and generous time off and EAP.  We are an equal opportunity employer – For All.