Hatchlings Manager

Overview: The ODC Network is a nonprofit organization focused on outdoor education and conservation throughout West Michigan. ODC Early Childhood Network operates a number of nature-based preschools and childcare facilities in Allegan and Ottawa County. The Hatchlings Manager will be responsible for creating a safe and caring environment that is filled with meaningful experiences for young children. They must expect to spend time outdoors, in all weather, with the children in their efforts to make a difference in the lives of young children and their families. Additionally, they must effectively and efficiently run the daily operation of the Infant/Toddler/Preschool Hatchlings program.

ODC Network Diversity Policy Statement:

The ODC Network is an equal opportunity employer. Click here to read our diversity statement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily operations of the Hatchlings program, ensuring high-quality care, safety, and nature-based learning experiences for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
• Manage student enrollment, coordinate transitions, and maintain accurate attendance records.
• Communicate with families regarding attendance, illnesses, and injuries in a timely and professional manner.
• Support tuition payment processes, maintain financial records, and coordinate with the VP of Early Childhood Administration to ensure accurate tracking.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, and staff while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for families, providing regular updates, addressing concerns, and navigating sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and quality program assessments, maintaining organized documentation and timely reporting.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with staff, families, and community partners to support the programs success.
• Lead hiring, onboarding, and training processes for Hatchlings teaching staff, ensuring alignment with ODC Networks nature-based philosophy.
• Provide ongoing support, supervision, and coaching for teaching staff, conducting classroom observations and facilitating professional growth opportunities.
• Schedule and manage substitute coverage as needed to maintain continuity of care.
• Oversee child assessment implementation, ensuring effective documentation of childrens growth and development.
• Collaborate with staff to develop, refine, and implement nature-based curriculum and experiences that align with best practices in early childhood education.
• Plan and facilitate staff meetings, professional development sessions, and training opportunities to enhance instructional practices and program quality.
• Build and maintain collaborations with other preschools and childcare providers, including nature-based programs, as well as engaging with community and professional organizations.
• Maintain a culturally responsive environment that values diversity, inclusion, and the unique backgrounds of all children and families.
• Provide direct classroom support as needed, including occasional teaching responsibilities.
• Lead communication efforts, including the development and distribution of a monthly family newsletter.
• Collaborate regularly with the Little Hawks Site Director to align program goals and operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief of Early Childhood Education.

Supervision/Evaluation:

Supervision and evaluation will be provided by the Chief of Early Childhood Education.

Education/Experience:

Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Education and a valid Michigan teaching certificate with an emphasis in early childhood education (ZS endorsement, Masters in Early Childhood, or similar degree). Must have experience working with teachers, parents and caregivers and be well versed in early childhood teaching and learning. Applicants will have a strong appreciation for the nature-based learning model.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated interest in young children and early childhood education.
• Highly effective organizational, time management, and multitasking skills
• Interest in nature and being outdoors.
• Willingness to spend a significant amount of time outdoors each day, in all types of weather.
• Demonstrated good character, responsibility and suitability to meet the needs of children.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office applications, Google, and the operation of general office equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team.
• Must pass Michigan child care background check, including fingerprinting, and have a valid drivers license and be fully insurable by the ODC Network
• Current certification in First Aid/CPR desired; training will be provided if needed.
• Bilingual English/Spanish speakers are encouraged to apply

Physical Demands:

This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, walking, standing, squatting, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, lifting, bending, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity. The work/teaching is performed indoors and outdoors. Additionally, this position requires occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds and walking, standing, and sitting for extended periods of time.

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position. This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned above.

ODC Network complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Kaylee Mesbergen, Director of People & Culture at kaylee@outdoordiscovery.org.