Education Director

RiseMe; New York (NY); On-site; USD 84,000 - 103,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Professional development opportunities

Paid holidays and program closings

Leadership growth opportunities

Job summary

Fort George Community Services seeks an Education Director to provide strategic and operational leadership for its Early Head Start, 3-K, and UPK programs. You will ensure high-quality education, support staff development, and drive program compliance to improve outcomes for children and families.

The ideal candidate brings a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, NYS certification, and leadership experience, with a passion for data-driven improvement and inclusive learning environments.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education is required.
• Permanent NYS Certification (Birth-Grade 2 or Nursery-Grade 6) required.
• Minimum 1-2 years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Strong knowledge of Head Start standards, DOE regulations, curriculum implementation, and child assessment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee Early Head Start, 3-K, and UPK educational programming.
• Ensure curriculum aligns with Head Start standards and DOE requirements.
• Supervise, coach, mentor, and evaluate teaching staff.
• Monitor child outcomes and program quality metrics.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, licensing, and educational regulations.
• Partner with families to support child development and engagement.

Skills

Leadership experience

Staff development

Data-driven decision making

Communication skills

Head Start knowledge

Education

Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education

Permanent New York State Certification (Birth-Grade 2 or Nursery-Grade 6)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Educational data systems

Job description

Make a Lasting Impact

At Fort George Community Services, you do more than build a career, you help transform lives. For over 35 years, we have empowered children and strengthened families through high-quality, family-focused early childhood programs. Join a mission-driven organization where your leadership directly impacts school readiness, family engagement, and the success of children across our communities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary:$93,589.33 annually
• DOE-designated holidays and program closings
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
• Meaningful work that strengthens children, families, and communities

About the Opportunity

Fort George Community Services is seeking an experienced Education Director to provide strategic and operational leadership for our Early Head Start (EHS), 3-K, and UPK programs. The Education Director is responsible for ensuring high-quality educational services, supporting teachers and staff, driving compliance, and fostering positive outcomes for children and families.

The ideal Education Director is a collaborative leader who is passionate about early childhood education, data-driven decision-making, staff development, and creating exceptional learning environments for children of all abilities.

What You'll Do

• Lead and oversee Early Head Start, 3-K, and UPK educational programming.
• Ensure curriculum implementation aligns with Head Start Performance Standards and DOE requirements.
• Supervise, coach, mentor, and evaluate teaching staff to promote excellence and continuous improvement.
• Monitor child outcomes, school readiness goals, and program quality metrics.
• Ensure 100% compliance with health, safety, licensing, and educational regulations.
• Partner with families to support children's development and strengthen family engagement.
• Coordinate services for children with disabilities and ensure effective implementation of IFSPs and IEPs.
• Analyze program data and recommend strategies to improve educational outcomes.
• Facilitate staff training, professional development, and ongoing performance management.
• Collaborate with leadership to support organizational goals and continuous program improvement.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education required.
• Permanent New York State Certification (Birth-Grade 2 or Nursery-Grade 6) required.
• Minimum 1-2 years of leadership, management, or supervisory experience.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Strong knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, DOE regulations, curriculum implementation, and child assessment practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and educational data systems.
• Ability to lift and assist children weighing up to 40 pounds when necessary.

Note: Finger prints background checks are MANDATORY

Fort George Community Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and healthy workplace where every employee can thrive.

Growing futures. Strengthening families. Changing communities.