Director, Simon Says Early Learning Center

St Louis, MO, US, 63123-6942

The Archdiocese of St. Louis Catholic Education and Formation features an expansive coalition of schools that allow our children to develop a sense of purpose and value, receive a higher quality education, join a welcoming community and feel secure in a a dynamic future.  We have a rich history, with its establishment 200 years ago by St. Rose Phillppine Duchesne.  A coalition of schools serving over 50,000 students (PreK-12) within an 11-county area.  The educational experience provided to our students and their families is rooted in a higher calling from God to honor and celebrate the gifts He has given us.

Job Summary

Job Title: Director of Simon Says Early Childhood Center

Location: St. Simon the Apostle Catholic Church Main Campus- Green Park

Job Type: Full-time

About Us: Simon Says Early Childhood Center is a Catholic, faith-based early learning center dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where all children, regardless of background, are welcomed and supported in their spiritual, emotional, and academic development. We pride ourselves on fostering a safe, inclusive space that embraces diversity and empowers young minds to grow in faith, knowledge, and kindness.

Position Overview: The Director of Simon Says Early Childhood Center is a highly visible, leadership position that is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the center, ensuring the center’s programs are of the highest quality, and ensuring alignment with Catholic values. This role is administrative-heavy and requires an individual with strong management, organizational, and communication skills. The Director will supervise staff, coordinate programs, manage budgets, ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, and build relationships with families, staff, and the broader community.

Job Responsibilities

Leadership and Administration:

  • Provide overall leadership and direction for the center’s operations, programs, and staff.
  • Develop and maintain center policies and procedures to ensure quality care, safety, and compliance with regulations.
  • Oversee the day-to-day administrative operations of the center, including budgeting, staffing, scheduling, and resource management.
  • Ensure that all staff and programs adhere to the mission and values of the Catholic faith and the center's ethos of inclusivity.
  • Communicate regularly with parents, staff, and the parish to keep all stakeholders informed about center activities and changes.

Staff Management:

  • Hire, train, and supervise a diverse team of teachers, aides, and administrative staff.
  • Provide ongoing professional development for staff to ensure they are well-equipped to meet the needs of the children.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and create growth plans for staff.
  • Foster a positive, collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork and the professional growth of staff members.

Program Development and Implementation:

  • Collaborate with staff to design and implement curriculum that promotes spiritual, social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in children.
  • Ensure programs reflect Catholic teachings, values, and a commitment to inclusivity.
  • Create opportunities for families to engage with the center and participate in faith-based activities.

Budget and Financial Management:

  • Develop and manage the center’s budget, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately and that financial goals are met.
  • Monitor expenses, track income, and ensure proper allocation of funds.
  • Oversee billing and tuition processes, ensuring timely and accurate collection of fees.

Compliance and Safety:

  • Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations concerning early childhood education, health, and safety.
  • Maintain up-to-date records of all licensing requirements, staff credentials, and facility inspections.
  • Develop and implement emergency procedures, conduct safety drills, and ensure a safe environment for both children and staff.

Community Outreach and Engagement:

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with families, parish members, and local community organizations.
  • Represent the center at parish meetings, community events, and diocesan functions.
  • Promote the center’s programs to prospective families and encourage enrollment.

Job Requirements

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
  • At least 5 years of experience in early childhood education or a related field, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
  • Strong administrative, organizational, and financial management skills.
  • Deep understanding of Catholic teachings and an ability to integrate faith into daily operations and interactions.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact effectively with children, parents, staff, and community members.
  • Knowledge of state and federal regulations related to early childhood education.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations with professionalism.
  • First Aid/CPR certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).

Personal Characteristics:

  • A strong commitment to the mission and values of Simon Says Early Childhood Center and the Catholic faith.
  • Compassionate, patient, and understanding, with a passion for early childhood education.
  • Collaborative leader with a positive and proactive approach to problem-solving.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis Catholic Education and Formation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.  
 
Pre-Employment Screening 
All candidates receiving an employment offer must submit a pre-employment screening. The screening will include criminal background check, Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen, employment and educational licensure/certification verification, health screening, and any other screenings deemed necessary for employment. Any offer would be contingent upon successful completion of any required screening.