Preschool Center Assistant Director

Children’s Land of Wheeling is a premier daycare and early childhood education center serving families across Chicagoland. With multiple convenient locations and exciting growth plans, we offer high-quality infant care, toddler programs, preschool, and kindergarten readiness. Our curriculum blends academic excellence with a nurturing, child-centered approach—helping children thrive socially, emotionally, and intellectually

The Assistant Director will support the Director in overseeing the management and success of Children’s Land. This role blends leadership, administration, and community engagement to ensure the center delivers the highest quality of care and education.

Key Responsibilities :

o Help oversee the daily operations of the center, including staffing, scheduling, budgeting, and curriculum development.

o The Assistant Director will support financial oversight by assisting with budgeting, monitoring expenses, and ensuring the center operates within financial guidelines.

o Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations, as well as adherence to center policies and procedures.

o Stay current with any changes in regulatory requirements and implement necessary changes.

o Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans based on a themed curriculum.

o Tailor lesson plans to meet the diverse needs of all children and promote a well-rounded learning environment.

o Provide ongoing training, support, and mentorship to staff members to ensure the highest quality of care and education for young learners.

o Oversee tuition collection, accounts receivables, and other financial aspects of the center. o Keep accurate records and reports on enrollment, attendance, and other administrative duties.

o Utilize Brightwheel for daily check-ins, parent communication, and record-keeping. o Build and maintain positive relationships with parents and families, encouraging their involvement in center activities.

o Meet with existing clients to address concerns regarding their children or the program’s policies.

o Evaluate customer satisfaction and address service needs and concerns.

o Plan and participate in large social events to promote the center, including annual Broadway shows held twice a year.

o Organize events that engage families and promote community involvement. o Create and execute marketing strategies to promote a positive image of the center and achieve high enrollment levels.

o Maintain a high standard of hygiene, cleanliness, and safety within the facility. o Manage center resources, including supplies, equipment, and facilities, ensuring they meet safety and quality standards.

o Participate in professional development opportunities to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in early childhood education.

o Proactively identify and implement adjustments to improve the center's operations and the success of the program.

o Oversee the continued development of the Action for Children Program and implement the Food Program.

O Provide classroom coverage as needed during times of short staffing.

O Perform additional responsibilities and / or duties as directed by the Director to ensure smooth classroom and school operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (required).
• DCFS Director Credential Level I or higher (required).
• Minimum 2 years of leadership experience in a licensed childcare setting.
• Strong understanding of DCFS regulations, curriculum planning, staff management, and child development best practices.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency with digital tools (email, shared drives, school apps) and comfort learning new platforms (e.g., Brightwheel).