Job Title: Child Care Director
Location: Children’s Garden of Learning, Vail, Colorado
Reports to: Executive Director

About Us:
At the Children’s Garden of Learning, we are dedicated to providing an inquiry-based education inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy. We partner with children, families, and the Vail Valley community to create a dynamic learning environment where education is co-constructed through observation, intentional planning, and active exploration. Our mission is to nurture socially capable, creative learners who love discovering and growing.

Position Overview:
The Child Care Director at the Children’s Garden of Learning is pivotal in managing the operations of our non-profit early childhood education program. The Director is a salaried four-day-a-week position.  This role requires a proactive leader involved in the program’s daily functions, ensuring that our Reggio Emilia-inspired educational philosophy and high standards are consistently maintained. The Site Director is essential in creating a supportive and dynamic environment for staff and children.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Day-to-Day Operations Management: Oversee daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the program. Address and resolve operational issues promptly to maintain a high-quality learning environment.
• Leadership and Vision: Set and implement short- and long-term goals for faculty that align with our educational approach and mission. Foster a collaborative atmosphere that supports program objectives.
• Staff Management and Supervision: Manage staff schedules, conduct ongoing supervision, and provide feedback and evaluations. Oversee the onboarding process for new teachers, ensuring they are well-integrated into the team and meet our standards.
• Administrative Oversight: Maintain accurate records related to employees, children, and facility activities. Handle administrative tasks including payroll processing and ensure timely and accurate execution. Must be fluent in Microsoft Office.
• Regulatory Compliance: Monitor and ensure compliance with state and local regulations, including safety and health standards. Maintain necessary documentation for licensing and quality requirements.
• Problem Solving and Support: Address learning issues in collaboration with teaching staff. Provide crisis management support as needed, ensuring a responsive and caring approach.
• Continuous Improvement: Integrate the latest trends and best practices in early childhood education into daily operations to continually enhance the facility’s programs and practices.
• Website and Social Media Management: Oversee the facility’s online presence to engage with families and the community, promoting activities and program highlights.
• Waitlist Management: Manage the enrollment waitlist, ensuring effective communication with prospective families and maintaining an organized and efficient system.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to connect effectively with children, parents, and staff, demonstrating empathy and strong communication skills.
• Leadership: Proven leadership abilities to inspire and guide staff while maintaining a respectful and collaborative work environment.
• Organization: Exceptional organizational skills with a strong focus on managing multiple daily tasks and responsibilities efficiently.
• Educational Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of early childhood education, including relevant theories and practices.
• Crisis Management: Skill in managing crises calmly and effectively, with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Customer Service: Excellent customer service skills with a professional demeanor to positively represent the facility to families and the community.

Education and Experience:

• Degree: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Early Childhood Education, Human Development and Family Studies, Social Work, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Certifications: Colorado Director Certification, or ability to obtain certification within six months of hire.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience within early childhood education or related field.  Experience in a leadership role preferred.
• Background Check: Successful completion of a comprehensive background check.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary Hiring Range: $65,000 – $75,000 at .80 FTE
• Vacation: 6+ weeks of paid vacation and sick and personal time.
• Annual Wellness Benefit: $500.
• Holiday Bonus: Provided.
• Health Insurance: 60% employer-covered.
• Retirement: Simple IRA match.
• Professional Development: Five paid professional development days annually.
• Parking: Lionshead parking included.
• Child Care Discount: Discounted childcare services for employees.
• Monthly Stipend: Potential to qualify for a $500 monthly Stipend from Eagle County (stipulations apply).