Executive Director

Barrett Early Learning Center (BELC) is seeking a visionary Executive Director to lead and strengthen our culturally responsive learning environment. This role is pivotal in ensuring the success of our early learning center, fostering collaboration among children, families, staff, and community stakeholders. The Executive Director will guide operations, staff development, program implementation, financial management, and community engagement to ensure the well-being of the children and sustainability of the Center.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership:
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations of the Center, maintaining a safe, nurturing, and compliant environment for children aged 2 to 5. Ensure compliance with state licensing requirements and other regulations.
• Staff Development & Management:
• Lead recruitment, hiring, training, and retention of a high-quality, committed team. Provide professional growth opportunities and mentorship, while ensuring timely completion of performance evaluations for all staff. Ensure a highly engaged, positive work environment for all staff (8-12 employees).
• Collaboration & Communication:
• Build and maintain open, professional relationships with staff, parents, the Board of Directors, and community partners to promote a collaborative and positive working environment.
• Policy & Procedure Development:
• Develop and maintain comprehensive policies and procedures to support Center operations and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Financial Oversight & Budgeting:
• Collaborate with the Board to develop and manage the Center’s budget, ensuring sound financial practices, oversight of fiscal policies, and preparation for annual audits. Manage contracts and oversee monthly billing.
• Program & Curriculum Management:
• Oversee staff in the planning and implementation of creative, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive programs for children. Ensure systems are in place to support the enrollment process and curriculum delivery.
• Compliance & Recordkeeping:
• Ensure all student, personnel, health, and safety records are maintained in compliance with state regulations. Oversee incident investigation and reporting.
• Community Engagement & Advocacy:
• Lead efforts to promote the Center within the community, advocating for continued funding and fostering relationships with local businesses, government, and community groups. Support and represent the Center at community events.
• Board Collaboration & Fundraising:
• Partner with the Board on strategic planning, fundraising initiatives, public speaking engagements, and grant writing. Attend monthly Board meetings and provide comprehensive reports on Center activities and public policy issues impacting the Center.

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Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field (graduate degree preferred).
• At least five years of experience in early childhood programs, with a minimum of three years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Strong financial management skills, with expertise in organizational operations and administration.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse staff, children, and families.
• Passionate about social and educational justice for children, with knowledge of cultural diversity and early childhood development.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

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Work Schedule:

This position is based at Barrett Early Learning Center in Charlottesville, Virginia, with occasional evening or weekend work required for special events.

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Salary

Salary starting at $75,000/year, commensurate with experience and expertise, plus benefits: healthcare with employee premiums paid at 80%, optional retirement plan, ability to purchase employee-paid disability insurance, earned annual leave at the rate of 4 hours per month beginning as of your first day on our payroll, and earned sick leave at the rate of 4 hours per month.

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About Barrett Early Learning Center:

Since 1935, Barrett Early Learning Center has been a cornerstone in providing equitable, nurturing, and culturally responsive early childhood education for children from historically underserved communities. Established as the Janie Porter Barrett Nursery School, our Center remains deeply committed to supporting the educational, social, and emotional needs of children from diverse backgrounds, including families of color and those from low-income households in Charlottesville. We embrace the richness of cultural diversity in our community and strive to create an inclusive learning environment where every child can thrive and feel valued.

Expected Start Date: June 1, 2025