Early Childhood Education Director - Spark Academy

Director - Spark Academy (Wilmington, NC)

Overview:

Spark Academy is looking for a Director to lead our team and support our mission of providing high-quality early childhood education. In this position, the Director acts as a thought leader in aligning business goals with mission-driven outcomes. This requires a balance of business acumen and leadership. 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. 

This role requires regular attendance at scheduled off-site meetings at Beacon Education’s office (located on the campus of GLOW Academy). The position is designated as on-site only and is not eligible for remote work. This position reports to the CEO and President of Beacon Education. 

Responsibilities: 

As the Director, you will ensure the school operates smoothly while maintaining a warm, engaging, and educational environment for children and staff. The Director will be expected to:

• Manage daily center operations, ensuring a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for children.
• Develop strategic plans to support the mission, vision, and growth of Spark Academy. 
• Support staff recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, and performance evaluation, to include frequent informal observations/feedback and biannual evaluations.
• Serve as direct supervisor of all Spark Academy employees, including Assistant Director, Instructional Coach, Teachers, Food & Nutrition Coordinator, Custodial Staff, and Maintenance Staff.
• Ensure compliance with state licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and organizational policies.
• Oversee the maintenance of the building and grounds of Spark Academy.
• Collaborate with Spark Academy’s instructional coach and teachers to develop and implement age-appropriate curriculum and activities.
• Partner with Beacon Education on community outreach initiatives. 
• Build strong relationships with families, addressing concerns and ensuring open communication.
• Manage center budget, supplies, and resources effectively.
• Approve payroll.
• Lead and plan professional development opportunities to support staff growth and retention.
• Plan for and implement regularly scheduled staff meetings.
• Attend meetings with Beacon Education’s leadership team. 
• Attend monthly Board of Education meetings.
• Other responsibilities, as assigned by the supervisor. 

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field, Master’s degree preferred.
• Candidate must be able to provide a copy of official transcripts upon hire. 
• Minimum of 5 years of experience, with a minimum of 3 years serving in a leadership capacity preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Level 1 North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential

Qualifications & Skills:

• 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.
• Experience managing budgets and operational logistics.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)

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 $55,000-65,000 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 : $55,000 - $65,000