Early Childhood Education Assistant Director

Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education - Spark Academy (Wilmington, NC)

Overview:

Spark Academy is looking for an Assistant Director to help lead our team and support our mission of providing high-quality early childhood education. This role requires a balance of leadership, organization, and hands-on involvement in classrooms. If you're passionate about early learning and thrive in a dynamic environment, we’d love to hear from you!

This role is based on-site at Spark Academy (1802 S. 17th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina). Spark Academy is open year-round, from 7 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. 

The position is designated as on-site only and is not eligible for remote work. This position reports to the Director of Spark Academy. 

Responsibilities:

As the Assistant Director, you will work closely with the Director to ensure the school operates smoothly while maintaining a warm, engaging, and educational environment for children and staff. Your responsibilities will include:

• Oversee admissions & enrollment processes, including: communicating consistently and clearly with prospective families, managing inquiries, scheduling and leading tours, applications, offers to enroll, enrollment paperwork, and maintaining waitlists.
• Monitor enrollment and maintain accurate records of children’s attendance, progress, and requirements.
• Manage and collect weekly tuition payments, ensuring accurate financial record-keeping and communication with families.
• Oversee the Spark Academy’s Food & Nutrition program, including support in weekly menu planning, and special activities/holidays. 
• Assist the Director in managing daily center operations, ensuring a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for children.
• Assist the Director in supporting staff recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, and performance evaluation.
• Serve as the lead administrator for recruiting, hiring, and onboarding substitutes. 
• Support the organization in maintaining compliance with state licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and organizational policies.
• Build strong relationships with families, addressing concerns and ensuring open communication.
• In collaboration with the Director, plan and implement professional development opportunities to support staff growth and retention.
• Attend meetings with Beacon Education’s leadership team, as required.
• Serve as the front office administrative support.  
• Act as the Director’s representative in their absence, making operational decisions as needed.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor. 

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in early childhood education, with leadership or administrative experience.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience 

Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of child development principles, licensing regulations, and best practices in early learning.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Familiarity with software used for enrollment, tuition processing, and center operations preferred.

Benefits:

• Health Benefits, 80% employer-paid premium
• Select Employer Paid Benefits (Dental, LTD, Term Life)
• Additional Benefits offered at employees’ expense
• Industry Leading Employer Matched 401K Program
• Employee PTO accrual
• Discounted Childcare for dependents of employees

Job Type:

• Full-time, minimum 40 hours per week
• 12-month position

Compensation:

• Annual Salary between $42,000 - $50,000 based on education and experience

Organization Overview:

At Spark Academy, we believe that every child deserves a strong foundation for lifelong learning, regardless of their background. As a state-of-the-art, mixed-income Early Childhood Development Center, we provide a nurturing and enriching environment for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old, fostering their cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Powered by Beacon Education, Spark Academy is committed to ensuring equitable access to high-quality early learning experiences that empower children and their families.

As part of Beacon Education’s mission to close achievement and opportunity gaps, Spark Academy joins the Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW Academy) in advancing educational excellence in North Carolina. Together, we are shaping brighter futures through innovative learning and unwavering support for children and families.

Learn more about Beacon Education’s mission and impact: https://beaconeducation.org.

Learn more about Spark Academy’s mission and impact: https://sparkacademync.com/.

Learn more about GLOW Academy’s mission and impact: https://www.glowacademy.net/ 

Salary : $42,000 - $50,000