Director- Before/After School

About the Role

The Base Director, under the direction of the Senior Director of Youth Development, is responsible for planning and assisting with the daily program to ensure high-quality care and program excellence for children. This role supports ongoing program continuity by adhering to MSDE regulations and standards while fostering a safe and engaging learning environment.

Leadership Competencies

• Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
• Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create better member experiences.
• Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement unit lesson plans and daily classroom activities.
• Ensure parents/guardians sign children in and out daily.
• Cultivate and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers and parents.
• Create and maintain a safe and attractive learning environment.
• Expand job knowledge and classroom skills continuously.
• Organize center events (e.g., field trips, school pictures).
• Perform other tasks related to the operation of the Base Program.
• Follow established childcare policies and prioritize relationship-building with members and the community.
• Attend all required meetings and training sessions.
• Complete the following training within 30 days of hire: Staff Expectations, First Aid, and CPR.
• Complete New Employee Orientation within 60 days of hire.
• Keep all training required by MSDE or the Hagerstown Y up to date.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to supervise children by sight and sound at all times.
• Ability to move quickly to react to safety issues (e.g., climbing, aggressive behavior).
• Ability to remain calm, objective, and respectful in potentially stressful situations (e.g., crying child, upset parent, or upset staff).
• Flexibility and willingness to adjust to change.
• Ability to move around the room to assist children with daily activities, social interaction, and physical/emotional needs.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Impact

• Meet children’s developmental needs and ensure an environment that promotes growth and learning.
• The YMCA will be recognized by the community as providing excellent service.
• Effectively connect and build relationships with members and the community, resulting in increased enrollment and retention.
• Deliver consistent, superior member service and satisfaction, driving growth in membership, programs, and special services.

Qualifications

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Must possess 90-hour School Age Credit Classes and complete 12 hours of continued training annually.
• Must meet all MSDE regulations and have experience leading groups of children, including:
  • 800 hours of experience, and
  • 90 hours in Childcare Development and School Age Curriculum or a related field with a plan of study leading to a credential, and
  • Two years of experience caring for children (one year must be with school-age children).