Center Manager

Position Summary

The Center Manager oversees the daily operations of a Head Start or Early Head Start center, ensuring a high-quality, safe, and nurturing environment for children, families, and staff. This position is responsible for managing staff, coordinating program activities, maintaining compliance with Head Start performance standards, and fostering positive relationships with families and the community. The Center Manager plays a vital role in supporting children’s development and family engagement, while maintaining program integrity and excellence.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Oversee the daily operations of the center, including scheduling, facilities management, and compliance with health and safety standards.
• Ensure adherence to Head Start and Early Head Start policies, procedures, and performance standards.
• Coordinate with leadership to address staffing, budgetary, and operational needs.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate center staff, including teachers, family advocates, and support staff.
• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities and training to build staff capacity.
• Facilitate regular team meetings to ensure collaboration and effective communication among staff.
• Ensure the delivery of highquality educational services, including curriculum implementation and individualization for children’s developmental needs.
• Monitor classroom environments to ensure they are safe, engaging, and conducive to learning.
• Collaborate with staff to develop and implement child and family goals aligned with program objectives.
• Build strong relationships with families, promoting their involvement in their children’s education and the program.
• Collaborate with family engagement specialists and other staff to address family needs and connect them to community resources.
• Encourage parent participation in governance, events, and other program activities.
• Conduct regular monitoring of classrooms, files, and activities to ensure compliance with program standards and regulations.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation, including attendance, assessments, and staff certifications.
• Prepare and submit reports to leadership, funders, and regulatory agencies as required.
• Foster relationships with community organizations to enhance services and resources for families.
• Represent the center at community meetings, events, and initiatives to promote the program and its mission.
• Respond promptly to emergencies, concerns, or issues at the center.
• Develop and implement action plans to address challenges and ensure program continuity.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities)

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• NC Childcare Administration Credentials Level 3
• At least 3 years of experience in early childhood education, including supervisory or management roles.
• Experience with Head Start or Early Head Start programs is highly desirable.
• Comprehensive understanding of Head Start performance standards, early childhood education principles, and family engagement strategies.
• Familiarity with licensing regulations and compliance standards for early childhood programs.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problemsolving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in technology for documentation, communication, and data management.