About this opportunity
Stamford JCC lists this Founding Director, JCC of Wilton/Weston/Redding/Ridgefield Early Learning and After-School Programs opportunity in stamford, Connecticut. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Position Summary
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The Stamford JCC will open a new licensed early learning center in Wilton in September 2027, on the campus of Temple B'nai Chaim. The center is designed for inclusion, with a fully accessible wing, a purpose-built classroom for JumpStart (the JCC's program for two-year-olds with physical and cognitive needs) and an accessible playground. It will pursue NAEYC accreditation in its first year. The JCC also plans a licensed K-5 after-school program for Wilton and Redding families.
The Founding Director starts in January 2027 and builds both programs from licensing through opening day and beyond. We are looking for an entrepreneurial educator and leader who wants to open and grow a school.
Key Responsibilities
Lead OEC licensing and local approvals, and open the center on schedule in September 2027
Hire and train a founding team that meets OEC and NAEYC staff qualifications
Build an inclusive, play-based curriculum grounded in child development and Jewish values
Meet a founding enrollment goal through outreach in Wilton, Redding, Ridgefield, Weston and surrounding towns
Set tuition and manage the budget with Finance, and prepare for Care 4 Kids and state-funded programs
Lead the center through NAEYC accreditation
Plan and launch the licensed K-5 after-school program
Position Requirement
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor's degree, preferably in early childhood education, child development or education
At least 8 years of experience in early learning, camp or school settings, including significant classroom teaching experience
At least 3 years in an administrative or leadership role
A record of opening a new program or site, or significantly growing enrollment
Experience with inclusive classrooms
Meets Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) program director requirements, including at least 3 credits in early childhood or educational administration (or completion within one year of hire)
CPR and First Aid certification, or obtained within 30 days of hire
Employment is contingent on all background checks required by Connecticut law for child care staff
Master's degree
Experience directing a licensed child care center
Experience with NAEYC accreditation
Experience with school-age after-school programs
Connections to the Wilton, Redding and Ridgefield communities
Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors, sit on the floor, move quickly and lift up to 40 pounds
Before opening, work at the Wilton site and the Stamford campus as needed; valid driver's license and reliable transportation
Full-time, Monday through Friday, with a long program day and occasional evening family events
Preferred
Physical Requirements and Schedule
Compensation and Benefits
95,000 - 105,000
Benefits:
Medical, dental and vision insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; employee discount; complimentary JCC membership.
To Apply
Send a resume and a cover letter describing a program you opened or grew to Rachel Beckwith at
JCC Info
The Stamford Jewish Community Center is a cultural, educational and recreational center, offering exceptional programs, classes and special events designed to enrich the mind, body and spirit. xqrzhdi While we are driven by the Jewish values of welcoming guests, kindness, respect, and communal responsibility, we warmly welcome people of all ages, faiths, ethnicities and backgrounds.
Worksite address
stamford, CT, 06925, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.