Smart Beginnings Early Learning Center is a licensed childcare facility serving up to 48 children in a high-quality, nurturing, and innovative environment. We believe that strong leadership, intentional teaching, and meaningful relationships lay the foundation for early learning success.
We're seeking a passionate and hands-on Educating Director to join our leadership team. This unique hybrid role is designed for an educator who thrives both in the classroom and in an operational leadership position.
Position Overview:
As an Educating Director, you will spend approximately 60% of your time in the classroom modeling instructional practices, coaching staff, and directly supporting children. The remaining 40% will focus on administrative leadership, including staff development, enrollment support, family communication, compliance, and center operations.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Culture
- Promote and model Smart Beginnings’ mission, vision and core values.
- Build strong staff morale through mentoring, coaching, and daily classroom support
- Lead professional development efforts and monthly staff meetings
- Foster a respectful, inclusive environment for children, families, and staff
Curriculum & Teaching
- Support the implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELS)
- Conduct classroom audits, guide lesson planning, and monitor assessment practices
- Oversee developmental screenings and coordinate referrals for children with additional needs
- Support and coach teachers in behavior management and inclusive practices
Center Operations & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with Missouri state licensing regulations
- Conduct regular classroom and playground safety checks
- Manage staff documentation, training records, and onboarding
- Support incident tracking, emergency preparedness, and facility upkeep
Family Engagement & Enrollment
- Conduct center tours and lead new family onboarding
- Respond to family questions, concerns, and feedback
- Assist with enrollment tracking, paperwork, and parent communication
- Send monthly newsletters and program updates
Qualifications:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
- 3–5 years of experience in a teaching role, with some leadership or coaching experience preferred
- Current CPR & First Aid Certification
- Deep understanding of Missouri licensing requirements
- Familiarity with Procare, Google Suite, and/or Intellikids
- A passion for child development and a hands-on leadership style
Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off, holidays, and professional development days
- Employee childcare discount
- Performance-based bonuses and appreciation events
Why Join Us?
At Smart Beginnings, we don't just provide care, we build a learning community. As Educating Director, you’ll shape the educational experience for children and support a team of professionals who are passionate about early childhood. If you're a driven leader with a heart for teaching, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $37,440.00 - $41,600.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Childcare
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
