Early Childhood Director

Description

The Early Childhood Director provides executive leadership and operational oversight for the Early Childhood Program, encompassing the Head Start umbrella of Preschool and Early Head Start services. This role is responsible for the strategic management of federal and state grants, ensuring strict adherence to the 2024 Head Start Program Performance Standards and evolving Oklahoma DHS licensing requirements. The Director establishes a trauma-informed clinical and educational culture that prioritizes workforce sustainability, mental health integration, and a welcoming environment rooted in the Tribe’s vision and values. Key responsibilities include fiscal management, staff wage parity implementation, and fostering collaborative partnerships with Tribal and community agencies to support the holistic development of children and families.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare and submit comprehensive grant applications and compliance documents to federal and state agencies.
• Oversee sound financial management including the development of complex budgets and cost-effectiveness monitoring.
• Implement multidisciplinary reporting systems to track fiscal, programmatic, and child outcome data.
• Lead workforce sustainability initiatives including the implementation of competitive salary scales and staff benefit packages.
• Ensure program operations comply with the 2024 Head Start Final Rule and the 2026 Oklahoma staff-to-child ratios.
• Develop and update internal policies to align with evolving Tribal, State, and Federal early childhood regulations.
• Supervise all subordinate personnel including recruitment, workload determination, and professional development planning.
• Conduct performance evaluations and initiate corrective actions or disciplinary procedures as necessary.
• Report regularly to the Governing Body and Policy Council regarding regulatory changes and program performance.
• Facilitate a multidisciplinary mental health approach to support the emotional well-being of children and staff.
• Collaborate with Tribal and community organizations to secure integrated services for children and families.
• Manage the annual Self-Assessment and Community Assessment processes to guide strategic program goals.
• Direct the recruitment and enrollment process including the application of new housing-cost eligibility adjustments.
• Oversee the Tribal Child Care Assistance program in strict accordance with the Child Care and Development Fund.
• Oversee annual reviews and onsite inspections of Tribal Child Care Assistance providers for quality assurance.
• Implement modernized incident reporting systems to ensure immediate response to child health and safety concerns.
• Direct the integration of technology into both administrative processes and the learning environment.
• Coordinate with Tribal health programs to ensure children receive timely developmental and medical screenings.
• Advocate for early childhood needs at Tribal Council, community forums, and regional educational summits.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Advanced knowledge of 2024 Head Start Program Performance Standards and 2026 Oklahoma licensing rules.
• Proficiency in trauma-informed leadership and the integration of mental health supports within an educational setting.
• Strong financial acumen for managing multi-million dollar federal grants and diverse funding streams.
• Competence in implementing workforce compensation structures and competitive staff benefit programs.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain composure during high-pressure or emergency situations.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for technical reporting and family-centered engagement.
• Deep understanding of Historical Trauma and its impact on Tribal healthcare and educational delivery systems.
• Skill in strategic planning and resource allocation to meet the evolving needs of a diverse population.
• Digital literacy and proficiency in leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance learning.
• Ability to foster collaborative, professional relationships with the Policy Council and Tribal leadership.
• Strong organizational skills to manage the complexities of multiple programs under the Head Start umbrella.
• Competence in resolving complex conflicts and grievances between staff, families, or community partners.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Program Administration, or a closely related field required.
• Master’s degree in Education, Human Services, or Public Administration preferred.
• Minimum of five years of experience in early childhood education or family services.
• Minimum of three years in a senior leadership or supervisory role within a Head Start or DHS-licensed facility.
• Extensive experience managing federal grants and ensuring compliance with federal reporting requirements.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to sit, stand, and move about a classroom or office environment for extended periods.
• Capacity to lift, carry, or position children or educational equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Visual acuity and hearing necessary to monitor child safety and engage in professional communication.
• Manual dexterity required for the operation of computer systems, office tools, and educational technology.
• Ability to work in an active environment with frequent exposure to loud noises and physical movement.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Successful completion of applicable tribal drug test.
• Successful completion of applicable tribal background check.
• Must pass background investigation for suitability of character identified in accordance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with no serious violations.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications or the ability to obtain them within one year of employment.