Assistant Director

Job Summary:

The Assistant Director supports the overall leadership, management, and daily operations of Dixon Academy to ensure the highest standards of early childhood education, safety, and family engagement. This role works collaboratively with the Center Director, Operations Director, and leadership team to promote excellence in program quality, staff development, compliance, and customer service.

The Assistant Director demonstrates a strong commitment to the mission and vision of Dixon Academy — "Your Child is Our First Priority." They serve as a role model of professionalism, accountability, and integrity, supporting the Director in executing goals, maintaining a positive center culture, and fostering strong relationships among staff, children, and families.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership and Operations

• Support the Director with day-to-day operations, including scheduling, staffing, and classroom coverage.
• Ensure compliance with all state licensing regulations, sanitation standards, and company policies.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and monitoring of operational and educational systems.
• Conduct daily walkthroughs to ensure classrooms meet health, safety, and quality standards.
• Serve as the acting Director in the Director's absence.
• Maintain open communication with families, addressing concerns or needs promptly and professionally.
• Assist in developing and implementing strategies to improve staff engagement, family satisfaction, and center performance.

Program and Curriculum Support:

• Support teachers in implementing Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD.
• Monitor classroom environments to ensure lesson plans, learning activities, and materials align with Dixon Academy's School Readiness Pathway.
• Observe classrooms and provide feedback to teachers to promote continuous improvement and instructional excellence.
• Support staff in planning and executing family engagement events, community initiatives, and enrichment activities.

Staff Development and Supervision:

• Assist with interviewing, onboarding, and training new employees.
• Conduct informal observations and participate in staff evaluations as directed by the Director.
• Coach and mentor teachers and support staff to promote professional growth and adherence to Dixon Academy's performance standards.
• Model and reinforce positive workplace culture, professionalism, and teamwork.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate child, staff, and center records, ensuring confidentiality and compliance.
• Support the Director in completing required reports, audits, and licensing documentation.
• Monitor attendance, ratios, and scheduling to ensure appropriate classroom coverage at all times.
• Assist with budget tracking, ordering supplies, and maintaining center inventory.
• Collaborate with the Operations Director on compliance, communication, and quality improvement initiatives.

Minimum Job Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, or related field (Master's preferred).
• NC Level III Administrator Credential required (or obtained within one year of hire).
• Qualifying Background Check Letter (current)
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in an early childhood education setting, with at least 1–2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) regulations and licensing standards.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams, solve problems, and make sound decisions.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in using administrative systems, digital platforms, and documentation tools.
• Current CPR/First Aid/AED Certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

Accountability:

• Reports directly to the Director.
• Accountable for maintaining compliance, upholding Dixon Academy's policies, and supporting high-quality program delivery.
• Responsible for ensuring effective communication between administration, staff, and families.
• Expected to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Supports and enforces Dixon Academy's standards for quality, safety, and operational excellence.
• Performance is evaluated annually by the Director and Operations Director based on leadership effectiveness, operational support, and team development.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stand, walk, sit on the floor, bend, and lift up to 35 lbs.
• Able to respond quickly to emergency situations involving children.
• Ability to move throughout the center and interact with children at their developmental level.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $36, $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Charlotte, NC Preferred)

Work Location: In person