What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director - Head Start Birth to Five Program position at Floyd County Community Action Agency, Inc.?
Our Mission Statement- Bringing staff, community, and families together to promote education, wellness, and self-sufficiency.
Based in New Albany, Indiana, Floyd County Community Action Agency, Inc. has provided services to families since 1971. Floyd County Head Start Birth to Five is a federally-funded, comprehensive Early Childhood program including Educational, Health, Transportation, and Family Support Services. A State-Licensed facility, we serve the Floyd County area and beyond.
We provide specialized services for the most at-risk populations in Floyd County and beyond. Qualifying families include:
- Family income below the poverty line
- Families receiving public assistance
- Homeless populations
- Unemployed families
- Foster children
- Other Family Risk Factors
Objective of the Job:
As the Director of the Head Start Birth to Five Program, you will be responsible for directing, administering, evaluating, and maintaining the program to ensure the delivery of all departments including Education, Health & Nutrition, Family Services, and Transportation. You will also cultivate awareness and knowledge of the Head Start and Early Head Start program within the community.
Key Responsibilities:
Policy and Procedure Area:
- Develop and recommend plans in line with the mission of the Head Start Birth to Five Program.
- Plan, implement, and coordinate the program plan, providing direction and leadership for all components.
- Interpret and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and statutes.
- Direct program operations to comply with contractual agreements, laws, regulations, and agency policies.
- Establish and oversee operating and administrative policies and procedures.
- Collaborate with federal regional staff to ensure effective service delivery.
- Provide oversight for program content services including health and nutrition, child development, family services, and special services.
- Develop and coordinate administrative organization plans and delegate tasks to staff.
- Prepare and submit grant applications and budgets to the Office of Head Start
- Coordinate regular meetings with the Policy Council and Governing Body.
- Research and apply for additional grant opportunities to ensure program success.
- Conduct wage surveys and develop personnel policies in collaboration with relevant bodies.
Monitoring, Tracking, and Record-Keeping:
- Develop and ensure appropriate goals and monitoring systems.
- Ensure facilities comply with State and Federal Guidelines.
- Update Community Needs Assessment and develop program goals based on the results.
- Utilize evaluation data to maintain and improve program services.
- Participate in program self-assessment and provide periodic written reports.
Supervision, Training, and Collaborations:
- Supervise and evaluate staff, including the Chief Fiscal Officer, Education Manager, Family Services Manager, Health Manager, Safety Compliance Manager, Human Resources Assistant and others.
- Conduct performance reviews and professional development plans for direct reports.
- Encourage lifelong learning and provide resources for educational opportunities.
- Serve as a liaison between the program, governing body, policy groups, councils, and community agencies.
- Promote the program through public relations and participation in community activities.
- Conduct meetings and provide training for staff, parents, and community members.
Other Responsibilities:
- Review and approve invoices, payroll hours, and other financial documents.
- Investigate and report child health concerns and abuse cases.
- Provide oversight for maintaining the program website.
- Participate in specialized workshops and required training sessions.
- Prepare documents and reports for the Regional Office as requested.
- Annually update policies, procedures, calendars, and job descriptions.
Universal Standards:
- Maintain reliable and consistent attendance.
- Develop positive relationships with staff, parents, children, and the community.
- Enhance professional knowledge, skills, and attitudes through available opportunities and resources.
- Ensure confidentiality in accordance with regulations and agency policy.
- Achieve desired results through effective communication and participation in the annual self-assessment.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field (Master’s Degree preferred).
- Experience non-profit organizations or grant writing/budget construction preferred.
- Experience in administration, management, and personnel.
- Familiarity with Head Start Birth to Five program principles and objectives or comparable preschool child development programs.
- Strong supervisory experience.
- Ability to relate well to and coordinate with those being served.
- Effective communication and multi-level thinking skills.
- Flexibility and ability to work as part of a cooperative team.
- Ability to safely transport a preschool child.
Deadline for Applications: February 17th, 2025. At that time, all applications will be reviewed and candidates will be contacted for next steps including virtual screening interview with Human Resources followed by an in person interview with an interview committee existing of Governing Board members, Policy Council Chair and program managers. After the interview process is completed, hiring for this position requires approval from the Office of Head Start.
