Early Childhood Assistant Director/Education Coordinator

It Takes A Village Family Of Schools; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 57,500 - 73,158; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 80% employer-paid medical coverage

Tuition assistance up to $10,000 annually

Robust paid time off, including 16 PTO days and 15 paid holidays

Job summary

It Takes A Village Family Of Schools in Chicago is seeking an Assistant Director / Education Coordinator to oversee site operations and lead curriculum implementation. This full-time position balances operational leadership with instructional coaching, ensuring high-quality teaching and strong community engagement.

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and has at least 2 years of leadership experience. The role includes compliance with educational standards and building relationships with families.

Compensation includes a full benefits package and robust paid time off.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of early childhood experience with leadership responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of IL DCFS Licensing Standards preferred.
• Experience with Head Start, CACFP, and NAEYC Accreditation is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Support staff supervision, coaching, and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and policies.
• Build strong relationships with families and the community.

Skills

Coaching teachers

Operational management

Building relationships

Data-driven insights

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Gateways Credential (Level 5)

Level I Director Credential

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: ITAV at River City - Chicago, IL 60607

Salary Range: $57,500.00 - $73,158.00 per year

About ITAV

It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV) is a beacon for educating and uplifting Black children and families across Chicago. We provide a culturally responsive, social justice–centered education that empowers students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and changemakers.

At ITAV, learning is joyful and transformative, teaching is innovative, and classrooms extend far beyond four walls. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while building strong, connected communities.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Assistant Director / Education Coordinator to support site operations while leading curriculum implementation and instructional quality across the center. This role serves as the second-in-command and plays a critical role in ensuring smooth daily operations, regulatory compliance, and high-quality teaching and learning.

This position balances operational leadership with instructional coaching, supporting staff development while maintaining strong family and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations

• Serve as the designee for the Site Director, assuming responsibility for daily operations as needed
• Support staff supervision, coaching, and performance management to drive instructional quality
• Assist with staffing, scheduling, and daily operational needs, including coverage and supply management
• Ensure compliance with ITAV policies, IL DCFS Licensing Standards, Head Start Performance Standards, CACFP, and NAEYC criteria

Curriculum & Instructional Leadership

• Collaborate with educators to design and implement developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive curriculum
• Conduct regular classroom observations and provide coaching and feedback to teachers
• Coordinate and support professional development, training, and instructional improvement initiatives
• Stay current on early childhood education best practices and research

Program Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Analyze child outcomes, classroom data, and program performance to drive improvement
• Support documentation, reporting, and compliance requirements
• Promote a culture of continuous quality improvement across the site

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as a point of contact for families regarding program and classroom matters
• Build strong relationships with families through communication and engagement activities
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive environment for families, staff, and community partners
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support site, staff, and organizational needs

Position Details

• Locations: South Loop (Chicago, IL)
• Position Type: Full-Time, 12‑Month Position
• Salary Range: $57,500 – $73,158
• Grant Funded

This position is supported through grant‑funded programs that are integral to ITAV’s early childhood education model. These funding streams enable us to expand access to high‑quality, culturally responsive care and learning across our communities.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• Gateways Credential (Level 5)
• Level I Director Credential
• Minimum 2 years of early childhood experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities

Preferred

• Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• Experience with Head Start, CACFP, and NAEYC Accreditation
• Strong knowledge of IL DCFS Licensing Standards

Who You Are

• Instructional Leader: Skilled in coaching teachers and improving classroom practices
• Operationally Strong: Can manage multiple priorities while maintaining compliance and organization
• Relationship‑Driven: Builds trust with staff, families, and community partners
• Strategic Thinker: Uses data and insights to drive program improvement
• Mission‑Aligned: Passionate about culturally responsive education and social justice

Compensation & Benefits

• Up to 80% employer‑paid medical coverage
• Full benefits package, including Dental, Vision, Legal Services, and Short‑Term Disability
• 3% 401(k) employer match to help build long‑term financial security
• Up to $10,000 annually in tuition assistance to support degree completion and credential advancement
• Robust paid time off, including 16 PTO days per year, 9 sick/personal days per year, and compensatory time eligible
• 15 paid holidays annually
• Clear pathways for career advancement and leadership opportunities

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are passionate about early childhood education and leadership and ready to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and cover letter to join a team that is shaping the future—one child at a time.