Position Summary

The Director is responsible for the overall leadership, business operations, regulatory compliance, and strategic direction of Discovery Place Early Learning Center. This role focuses on effective organizational management, financial stewardship, staff leadership, and operation performance to ensure a high-quality early learning environment. The Director partners with the Assistant Director, who leads curriculum and classroom practice, to ensure programming meets licensing standards and delivers exceptional childcare and education.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

 

Operational & Administrative Leadership

●     Oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the center to ensure efficient, compliant, and high‑quality service delivery.

●     Develop, implement, and maintain organizational policies, procedures, and systems that support operational excellence.

●     Lead strategic planning efforts in collaboration with the Board to support long‑term sustainability and growth.

●     Manage enrollment processes, inquiries, tours, and waitlists to maintain optimal staffing and capacity levels.

●     Maintain accurate and organized records for staff, students, licensing, and operational needs.

Financial Management
●     Develop and manage the center’s annual operating budget in partnership with the Board.

●     Monitor financial performance, track expenditures, and ensure responsible stewardship of resources.

●     Prepare financial reports and present updates to the Board as requested.

●     Identify and pursue grant opportunities, fundraising initiatives, and community partnerships that support program enhancement.

●     Oversee purchasing, vendor relationships, and inventory management within approved budget parameters.

Human Resources & Staff Leadership

●     Lead the recruitment, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding of staff to maintain a high‑performing team.

●     Ensure all staff meet Minnesota Rule 3 qualifications and complete required background checks and training.

●     Provide ongoing coaching, performance evaluations, and corrective action when necessary.

●     Manage staff scheduling, attendance, leave requests, and workforce planning.

●     Foster a positive, professional, and accountable workplace culture grounded in respect and collaboration.

Regulatory Compliance & Licensing

●     Ensure full compliance with Minnesota Rule 3, DHS licensing requirements, MDH food service regulations, and all applicable state and local standards.

●     Maintain all required documentation, reporting, and recordkeeping for licensing and accreditation.

●     Conduct regular internal audits to ensure readiness for inspections and renewals.

●     Oversee safety protocols, emergency procedures, and monthly drills.

Program Oversight & Quality Assurance

●     Ensure teaching staff implement developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with licensing standards and Parent Aware guidelines.

●     Monitor classroom environments, staffing ratios, and program quality.

●     Support teachers in addressing behavioral, developmental, or family concerns, ensuring consistent communication and documentation.

●     Participate in family meetings as needed to support staff and maintain strong relationships with parents.

Family & Community Engagement

●     Develop and maintain effective communication systems to keep families informed and engaged.

●     Coordinate family events, educational workshops, and community outreach initiatives.

●     Represent the center in public relations, marketing, and community partnerships.

●     Oversee updates to the center’s website, social media, and communication platforms.

Facility & Safety Management

●     Ensure the facility is clean, safe, and well‑maintained.

●     Oversee equipment maintenance, supply ordering, and vendor coordination.

●     Conduct regular safety inspections and ensure compliance with health, fire, and building regulations.

Food Program Oversight

●     Ensure compliance with state and federal food program requirements.

●     Train staff on proper food handling, service, and documentation procedures.

Intergenerational Programming

●     Plan and oversee intergenerational learning activities in partnership with Valley Home Assisted Living.

●     Ensure activities are developmentally appropriate and beneficial for both children and seniors.

●     Support staff in preparing materials and supervising interactions.

Education & Experience Requirements
●     Must be at least 18 years of age.

●     Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, Nonprofit Management, Early Childhood Education, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.

●     Minimum of 1,040 hours of staff supervision experience (paid or unpaid), or willingness to obtain.

●     At least nine quarter credits or 90 hours of training in staff supervision, human relations, and child development, or willingness to obtain.

●     Current or obtainable Pediatric and Adult First Aid/CPR certification.

●     Active enrollment in “Develop: The Minnesota Quality Improvement & Registry Tool.”

Key Competencies
●     Strong leadership, decision‑making, and organizational management skills.

●     Proficiency in budgeting, financial oversight, and operational planning.

●     Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

●     Ability to manage conflict, coach staff, and build a positive workplace culture.

●     Strong understanding of state and federal childcare regulations.

●     Ability to remain calm and effective in high‑pressure situations.

●     Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices.

●     Professional, reliable, and solutions‑oriented demeanor.

●     Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record.

●     Ability to pass a comprehensive background check.

Physical Demands
●     Ability to stand, walk, kneel, bend, and sit on the floor as needed.

●     Ability to lift up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 40 pounds occasionally from floor to shoulder height.

●     Visual and auditory ability to monitor children and communicate effectively.

●     Occasional supervision of children in classroom or outdoor settings.

Work Environment
The Director primarily works in an office setting but is expected to maintain regular visibility throughout the center. A dedicated workspace is provided for administrative responsibilities. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Disclaimer
This job description outlines the general scope of responsibilities and may be adjusted based on organizational needs. Additional duties may be assigned by the Board of Directors.

Mission Statement
The mission of Discovery Place Early Learning Center is to create a positive, nurturing, and educational environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive. Our goal is to support the development of each child in the key areas of cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth. We believe in treating all students with respect, fostering a culture of choice, and offering constructive feedback – all within a safe and supportive environment.

Compensation
Starting salary: $50,000 per year, based on qualifications and experience.