Before & After-School Program Director

Job Overview
The Program Director is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and daily operation of the Pioneer Adventure Club (PAC) Before and After School Program. This is a working leadership position that combines administrative responsibilities with direct supervision and care of school-age children. The Director works alongside staff to provide a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment while ensuring high-quality programming and compliance with all licensing requirements.

Responsibilities

Program Leadership

• Oversee all daily operations of the PAC program.
• Provide direct care and active supervision of children on a regular basis by working alongside staff during program hours.
• Ensure children are supervised in a safe, positive, nurturing, and engaging environment.
• Maintain compliance with Nebraska Child Care Licensing Regulations and Foundation policies.
• Develop and maintain high-quality programming that supports children's social, emotional, physical, and academic development.
• Monitor staff-to-child ratios throughout operating hours.
• Conduct daily building safety checks and ensure emergency procedures are followed.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, accidents, illnesses, and other incidents.
• Complete all required incident, accident, injury, and behavioral documentation.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and implement continuous improvements.
• Coordinate seasonal programming, school breaks, summer programming, and special events.

Staff Leadership

• Recruit, interview, hire, and onboard new employees.
• Train staff on program policies, licensing requirements, emergency procedures, and best practices.
• Supervise, mentor, coach, and evaluate staff performance.
• Conduct formal employee evaluations.
• Develop staff schedules that meet enrollment needs and licensing ratios.
• Monitor employee attendance and performance.
• Lead regular staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
• Recognize employee accomplishments and foster a positive team culture.

Child and Family Relations

• Build positive relationships with children and families.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for parent communication.
• Address parent questions, concerns, and feedback in a timely and professional manner.
• Support staff with behavior management strategies.
• Develop and implement behavior support plans when appropriate.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and employees.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate enrollment, attendance, and student records.
• Update emergency contact information and student files.
• Prepare registration materials and enrollment packets.
• Process payroll and review employee timesheets.
• Order supplies and manage inventory.
• Prepare budgets and monitor program expenses.
• Maintain licensing documentation and required reports.
• Review attendance trends and enrollment projections.
• Update parent and employee handbooks as needed.
• Ensure all required employee and child records remain current.

School and Community Collaboration

• Maintain regular communication with school administrators and Foundation leadership.
• Coordinate with school staff regarding daily operations.
• Plan and coordinate field trips and special events.
• Represent PAC professionally within the school district and community.
• Foster positive relationships with community partners.

Qualifications

Required

• Must be at least 19 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Meet Nebraska Child Care Licensing qualifications for a Program Director.
• Ability to pass:
• Nebraska Child Abuse and Neglect Registry Check
• Nebraska Adult Abuse Registry Check
• Criminal Background Check
• Current First Aid/CPR certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Reliable transportation.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Recreation, Human Services, or a related field.
• Previous supervisory or management experience.
• Experience working in licensed child care or school-age programming.
• Experience with budgeting, scheduling, and staff supervision.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to:

• Lead and motivate a team.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, staff, and school personnel.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Solve problems and make sound decisions.
• Prioritize multiple responsibilities.
• Maintain professionalism in stressful situations.
• Organize and manage time effectively.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Work independently while collaborating with others.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability.
• Model professionalism, integrity, and ethical decision-making.

Join us to make a meaningful impact on young learners’ lives by leading a passionate team and dynamic programs that inspire growth, curiosity, and joy!

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person