Assistant Director, Vogel Center for Early Learning

Principal Responsibilities:

The Assistant Director of the Vogel Center for Early Learning at the Stamford JCC plays a vital role in supporting the daily operations and overall quality of the KinderPlace, Sara Walker Nursery School, and JCC Preschool at Greenwich Reform Synagogue programs. This position works closely with the KinderPlace and Sara Walker Directors to ensure compliance with state licensing regulations, provide classroom coverage as needed, support staff development, implement special events, and foster positive relationships with families.

In the absence of any of the school directors, the Assistant Director will step in to assume the responsibilities of the Director role.

In addition to program oversight, the Assistant Director manages and coordinates the Early Childhood Apprenticeship Program. This role ensures a structured and supportive learning environment for apprentices and mentors, fKey Responsibilities:

Early Learning Program Support:

• Provide classroom coverage as needed.
• Collaborate with the KinderPlace and Sara Walker Directors to oversee program operations.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with state licensing regulations and health and safety standards.
• Support staff scheduling, ensuring appropriate classroom coverage.
• Assist with staff training and professional development.
• Serve as acting director in the absence of any school director.

Support for School Special Events:

• Collaborate with program directors and educators to plan and implement school-wide special events, including Parent Shabbats, Grandparents Day, and Moving Up programs.
• Help develop a shared vision for each event, ensuring alignment with the values and goals of the Vogel Center for Early Learning.
• Coordinate logistics such as family communications, scheduling, materials, and set-up/clean-up.
• Serve as a welcoming and supportive presence during events and address day-of needs.
• Participate in post-event reflection and feedback to support continuous improvement.

CDA Credit Program Coordination:

• Manage the CDA credit program in collaboration with the Connecticut State College system.
• Ensure smooth registration processes for CDA apprentices.
• Maintain accurate program documentation and meet reporting requirements.

Mentor Oversight and Support:

• Provide ongoing guidance and support to mentors in the CDA program.
• Ensure mentors receive appropriate training to effectively support apprentices.
• Conduct biweekly check-ins with mentors.
• Foster open communication between mentors and program leadership.

Apprentice Oversight and Support:

• Conduct onboarding sessions for apprentices, ensuring they understand program expectations and CDA requirements.
• Register apprentices with the Connecticut State College system and OEC Registry.
• Coordinate additional training opportunities (e.g., First Aid/CPR).
• Conduct biweekly check-ins with apprentices.
• Perform needs assessments and refer to the Human Services Navigator as appropriate.
• Monitor and track apprentice progress, ensuring alignment with CDA competencies.

Fostering professional growth through training, mentorship, and competency assessments.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Early childhood teaching experience.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of educators, families, and community stakeholders.