Director, Early Learning Center (ELC)

Job Title: Director, Early Learning Center (ELC)

Organization: Phillips Brooks School (PBS)

About Phillips Brooks School:

PBS is a vibrant and innovative ELC to 5th grade school committed to fostering a love of learning in a supportive and inclusive environment. We value courage, kindness, community, and a passion for lifelong learning.

About the Role:

The Director of the ELC is a visionary leader responsible for creating and sustaining an exceptional early childhood program that aligns with PBS's core values. You will lead a talented and highly motivated team of up to 10 educators in delivering a Reggio-inspired, play-based curriculum that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in 66 young children.

The Director of the Early Learning Center will lead in all aspects of the ELC, including managing day-to-day operations of the program, mentoring faculty and staff, inspiring pedagogical advances, and collaborating with aftercare and enrichment staff, to create a safe and nurturing learning environment. The Director of the ELC will sit on the Academic Leadership Team to ensure alignment with the K-5 program, ensuring a smooth experience for children and families. The Director of ELC will report directly to the Head of School for this 11-month position.

Key Responsibilities and Requirements:

• Program Leadership & Development:
  • Lead the intentional planning and implementation of the ELC curriculum, ensuring alignment with PBS's educational philosophy and best practices in early childhood education.
  • Drive continuous improvement in teaching and learning through professional development, coaching, and observation.
  • Cultivate a vibrant and inclusive learning environment that fosters the social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development of young children.
  • Model effective teaching, observation, and assessment, as well as child support, through classroom coverage and teaching.
• Team Leadership & Management:
  • Recruit, hire, mentor, and evaluate a high-performing team of early childhood educators and be the daily supervisor for the ELC aftercare staff.
  • Foster a collaborative and supportive team culture that values open communication, shared decision-making, professional growth, and student-centered perspectives.
  • Model curiosity and a growth mindset to inspire others to strive for ongoing growth and 
  • Oversee the day-to-day operations of the ELC, including scheduling, classroom management, and resource allocation.
• Family Partnerships:
  • Build strong and meaningful partnerships with families, effectively communicating the ELC's program and addressing their questions and concerns.
  • Engage families in the learning process and foster a strong sense of community within the ELC.
  • Support the admissions process by showcasing the unique benefits of the ELC to prospective families.
• School Leadership:
  • Collaborate with the Academic Leadership Team to plan and execute strategic school-wide initiatives.
  • Work with the Academic Leadership Team, multi-grade teachers, and the kindergarten team to ensure a seamless transition to the K-5 program.
  • Represent the ELC on school-wide committees and initiatives.
  • Maintain compliance with all relevant California State Licensing requirements.
  • Work with the facilities team to ensure the spaces meet all licensing requirements, and participate in strategic planning to develop curriculum-aligned spaces for the future.

Personal Qualities and Attributes:

• Strong Work Ethic: Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to effectively prioritize tasks and manage multiple demands.
• Passion for Early Childhood: Deeply passionate about early childhood education with a strong understanding of child development; a genuine enthusiasm for working with young children and a reverence for the importance of this age.
• Growth Mindset: A strong sense of curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, both personally and for the team.
• Exceptional Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences, including children, families, colleagues, and administrators. This includes the ability to listen empathetically, address concerns constructively, and build strong relationships.
• Collaborative Leadership: Proven ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment through effective communication, shared decision-making, and consistent support.
• Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging: A strong commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all children, families, and faculty/staff.
• Coaching and Mentorship: Experience providing constructive feedback, coaching teachers, and supporting their professional development.

Qualifications:

• Essential:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
  • 5 years of experience in early childhood education
  • Demonstrated expertise in Reggio-inspired pedagogy, play-based learning, and developmentally appropriate practices
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
  • Passion for early childhood education and a deep understanding of child development
• Desired:
  • Previous leadership experience in the early childhood setting
  • Experience in a private school setting
  • Experience with data-driven decision-making and program evaluation

Other Position Information:

This is a full-time, 11-month position with a salary range from $125,000 to $140,000 depending on background and experience. PBS has an excellent benefits program in addition to salary.

How to Apply:

Candidates for this position should submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three to five references (including their current supervisor).

Salary : $125,000 - $140,000