The Early Learning Academy Assistant Director supports the daily operations of the YMCA's Early Learning Academy, helping create a safe, welcoming, and high-quality learning environment for children and families. Working closely with the Early Learning Academy Director, this position provides day-to-day leadership to teaching staff, supports curriculum and classroom quality, assists with licensing and administrative requirements, and helps ensure consistent communication with families. The Assistant Director serves as a visible and engaged leader within the Academy, supporting staff and classrooms as needed and serving as the Director Delegate in the absence of the Early Learning Academy Director.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Program Operations & Quality Support the Early Learning Academy Director with daily program operations and implementation of YMCA policies and procedures. Help ensure programming meets DCFS licensing requirements and other applicable regulations and standards. Monitor classroom ratios, staffing needs, schedules, and transitions throughout the day. Support enrollment, classroom operations, and other administrative needs of the Academy. Assist in classrooms as needed to maintain appropriate ratios and program quality. Help maintain safe, clean, organized, and engaging classrooms, common spaces, and outdoor play areas. Support teaching staff in implementing developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences using Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD. Support preparation for licensing visits, inspections, assessments, and other program reviews. Staff Leadership & Development Provide day-to-day guidance, coaching, and support to Early Learning Academy staff. Assist with new staff orientation, onboarding, training, scheduling, and ongoing professional development. Foster a positive, collaborative culture that supports teamwork, accountability, and high-quality care. Work with teaching staff to support consistent classroom routines, transitions, behavior guidance, and developmentally appropriate practices. Communicate staffing needs, performance concerns, classroom needs, and opportunities for improvement to the Early Learning Academy Director. Children & Families Build strong, professional relationships with children and families and help create an environment where families feel welcomed, informed, and connected. Communicate with families regarding program needs, classroom activities, policies, and other relevant information. Assist with tours for prospective families and support the enrollment and onboarding process. Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professional, respectful communication at all times. Support culturally responsive practices that recognize and respect the individual needs of children and families. Administration & YMCA Mission Assist with maintaining accurate staff and child files in accordance with licensing requirements. Support program documentation, reporting, recordkeeping, inventory, and other administrative responsibilities. Participate in staff meetings, professional development, YMCA meetings, and required events. Serve as the Director Delegate and provide leadership for the Early Learning Academy in the Director's absence. Demonstrate and reinforce the YMCA's Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. Promote Early Learning Academy programs and other YMCA programs, services, and opportunities. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must be at least 21 years of age. High school diploma or equivalent required. Must meet Illinois DCFS Director qualification requirements, including a minimum of an associate degree in child development or early childhood education, or the equivalent of 64 semester hours in any discipline with at least 21 semester hours of college credit in child development, early childhood education, or early childhood special education. Must also hold a Gateways to Opportunity Level I Illinois Director Credential or have completed 3 semester hours of college credit or 3 points of credential-approved training in administration, leadership, or management. One to two years of supervisory or management experience preferred; experience in early childhood education strongly preferred. Knowledge and understanding of child care regulations, licensing standards, child development, and developmentally appropriate practices. Experience with Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD preferred. Strong communication, organization, leadership, and relationship-building skills. Ability to effectively support staff while remaining actively involved in classrooms and daily program operations. Must successfully complete all required background and criminal history checks. Must complete and maintain required YMCA, DCFS, health and safety, and other applicable trainings and certifications.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position within an active early childhood environment. This includes frequently standing, walking, bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and moving throughout classrooms and program spaces. The position may require lifting and carrying children, equipment, and program supplies in accordance with applicable safety guidelines.

OUR CULTURE

At the Fox Valley Family YMCA, our work is about more than programs and services. We create spaces where people feel welcomed, supported, and connected. Our Early Learning Academy team plays an important role in that mission by creating a safe and caring environment where children can learn, grow, build relationships, and develop a strong foundation for what comes next. As a YMCA team member, the Assistant Director is expected to model our Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility and contribute to a positive culture for children, families, staff, and our community.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$20.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement

Education:

Associate (Required)

Experience:

Childcare:

3 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person