Founding Center Director — Catholic Early Learning

Bridgeport Diocese; Shelton (CT); On-site; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bridgeport Diocese's St. Carlo Acutis Catholic Early Learning Network seeks a Founding Center Director to lead the flagship St. Lawrence Campus, integrating Catholic identity with a high-quality educational program.

You will recruit and develop founding faculty, establish culture and standards, ensure licensing compliance, and partner with parish leadership to advance the mission. A strong background in early childhood education and faith-based leadership is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Educational Leadership, Child Development, or related field.
• Meets or is eligible to meet all Connecticut Office of Early Childhood requirements for a licensed child care center director.
• Minimum five years of progressively responsible leadership experience in early childhood education, including staff supervision.
• Practicing Catholic in good standing who embraces the mission of Catholic education.

Responsibilities

• Lead founding campus with Catholic identity, mission, and educational standards.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, mentor, evaluate, and retain founding faculty.
• Ensure CT licensing compliance and health, safety, and child protection standards.
• Oversee enrollment, admissions, scheduling, attendance, and recordkeeping.
• Manage operating budget with prudent stewardship of resources.

Skills

Leadership experience

Team building

Enrollment growth

Operational oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

Connecticut licensing requirements for licensed child care center director

Master’s degree in related field (preferred)

Job description

The Bridgeport Diocese's St. Carlo Acutis Catholic Early Learning Network seeks a Founding Center Director to lead the flagship St. Lawrence Campus, integrating Catholic identity with a high-quality educational program.

You will recruit and develop founding faculty, establish culture and standards, ensure licensing compliance, and partner with parish leadership to advance the mission. A strong background in early childhood education and faith-based leadership is essential.