Founding Director, JCC of Wilton/Weston/Redding/Ridgefield Early Learning Center and After-School Pr

About the role

You are here: Home | Search for a Job Back To Search Results Location and Job Title: Founding Director, JCC of Wilton/Weston/Redding/Ridgefield Early Learning Center and After-School Pr JCC of Stamford 1035 Newfield Ave Stamford, CT 06905 Principal Responsibilities: Position Summary The Stamford JCC will open a new licensed early learning center in Wilton in September 2027, on the campus of Temple B'nai Chaim. The center is designed for inclusion, with a fully accessible wing, a purpose-built classroom for JumpStart (the JCC's program for two-year-olds with physical and cognitive needs) and an accessible playground. It will pursue NAEYC accreditation in its first year. The JCC also plans a licensed K-5 after-school program for Wilton and Redding families. The Founding Director starts in January 2027 and builds both programs from licensing through opening day and beyond. We are looking for an entrepreneurial educator and leader who wants to open and grow a school. Key Responsibilities Lead OEC licensing and local approvals, and open the center on schedule in September 2027Work with architects and contractors so classrooms meet licensing, accessibility and accreditation standardsHire and train a founding team that meets OEC and NAEYC staff qualificationsBuild an inclusive, play-based curriculum grounded in child development and Jewish valuesMeet a founding enrollment goal through outreach in Wilton, Redding, Ridgefield, Weston and surrounding townsSet tuition and manage the budget with Finance, and prepare for Care 4 Kids and state-funded programsLead the center through NAEYC accreditationPlan and launch the licensed K-5 after-school program Minimum Qualifications: Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree, preferably in early childhood education, child development or educationAt least 8 years of experience in early learning, camp or school settings, including significant classroom teaching experienceAt least 3 years in an administrative or leadership roleA record of opening a new program or site, or significantly growing enrollmentExperience with inclusive classroomsMeets Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) program director requirements, including at least 3 credits in early childhood or educational administration (or completion within one year of hire)CPR and First Aid certification, or obtained within 30 days of hireEmployment is contingent on all background checks required by Connecticut law for child care staffMaster's degreeExperience directing a licensed child care centerExperience with NAEYC accreditationExperience with school-age after-school programsConnections to the Wilton, Redding and Ridgefield communitiesAbility to supervise children indoors and outdoors, sit on the floor, move quickly and lift up to 40 poundsBefore opening, work at the Wilton site and the Stamford campus as needed; valid driver's license and reliable transportationFull-time, Monday through Friday, with a long program day and occasional evening family events Preferred Physical Requirements and Schedule Compensation and Benefits Salary Range: $85,000 - $100,000 annually Benefits: Medical, dental and vision insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; employee discount; complimentary JCC membership. To Apply Send a resume and a cover letter describing a program you opened or grew to Rachel Beckwith at (contact details on the original listing). Salary: $85,000 - $95,000 Agency Information: The Stamford Jewish Community Center is a cultural, educational and recreational center, offering exceptional programs, classes and special events designed to enrich the mind, body and spirit. While we are driven by the Jewish values of welcoming guests, kindness, respect, and communal responsibility, we warmly welcome people of all ages, faiths, ethnicities and backgrounds.