Early Learning Center Director - Marietta

About the role

The Early Learning Center (ELC) Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, development, and success of the Early Learning Center program, serving children from 6 weeks to prekindergarten age. This role involves maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment that aligns with the mission and values of Lititz Christian School. The ELC Director leads a team of teachers and support staff, ensuring compliance with state regulations and implementing best practices in early childhood education.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the staff, ensuring alignment with the center's mission, values, and policies.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Early Learning Center, including staffing, scheduling, budgeting, and facility management.
• Ensure PA certification licensing standards are met and manage the accreditation process for the center (ACSI and Keystone STARS).
• Keep staffing regulations and files up to date, including required clearances, training, and yearly reviews.
• Conduct tours for prospective parents and enroll new families.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment where staff feel supported, valued, and motivated to excel.
• Develop and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that integrates Christian principles and values.
• Ensure the curriculum aligns with state standards and promotes holistic growth in cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual domains.
• Regularly assess and update curriculum to meet the evolving needs of students and families.
• Build strong relationships with students, families, and the broader community, maintaining open communication and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Provide support and guidance to families, addressing their needs and concerns with empathy and professionalism.
• Provide resources to families.
• Organize family engagement events.
• Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate teaching staff, ensuring compliance with licensing requirements and professional standards.
• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities for staff to enhance their skills and stay abreast of best practices in early childhood education.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the staff team.
• Integrate Christian values and teachings into all aspects of the center's programming and culture.
• Exemplify Christian faith and values, nurturing an environment that is supportive for all members of the community.
• Key responsibilities include staff hiring, training, and evaluation; curriculum oversight; family engagement; and effective budget and resource management.
• The Director also collaborates with school leadership to maintain a seamless connection between the ELC and the broader school community.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for fostering a positive learning environment for children and supporting staff growth and retention.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, Special Education or Human Services
• Prior experience in an administrative role within an early childhood center, school, or faith-based setting
• Working knowledge of Brightwheel or similar childcare management software
• Familiarity with Pennsylvania DHS licensing requirements and documentation
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Alignment with the mission, values, and faith-based environment of Lititz Christian Early Learning Center

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance