UPK Director (Early Childhood Education)

The Opportunity

82nd Street Academics seeks an experienced, mission-driven leader to serve as Early Childhood Programs Director.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct all UPK program quality, compliance, operations, and DOE/NYS standards.

• Supervise and coach teachers, instructional leads, and support staff.

• Lead family engagement, enrollment, attendance, and community outreach.

• Ensure an inclusive, high-quality learning environment that meets DOE and DOH expectations.

• Lead the design and execution of organization-wide training, coaching, and staff evaluation systems.

• Strengthen staff culture grounded in equity, joy, and continuous improvement.

• Cultivate emerging leaders and ensure pathways for growth and retention.

• Serve as a primary liaison to DOE, DOH, DYCD, school partners, and community organizations.

• Lead site visits, audits, and reporting requirements for all programs.

• Represent 82SA in external forums, partnerships, and collaborative initiatives to strengthen visibility and impact.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $80,000–$100,000 (commensurate with experience)
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, paid time off, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities

Work Environment

• Full-time, primarily on-site in Jackson Heights, Queens, with periodic travel to other sites.

• Occasional evenings or weekends may be required for family events, audits, or training sessions.

• Bilingual candidates (English/Spanish or other Queens-community languages) are strongly encouraged to apply.

EEO & Inclusion

82nd Street Academics is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive and equitable environment for all staff and families. Individuals from historically marginalized communities and those with lived experience in Queens are strongly encouraged to apply.