Early Childhood Center Principal

Position Type:
Administration/Principal

Date Posted:
2/11/2026

Location:
Early Childhood Center
POSITION TITLE: Early Childhood Center Principal

F.L.S.A. Exempt

REPORTS TO: Assistant Superintendent of Student Services

MAJOR POLICY RESPONSIBILITY:

The Early Childhood Center Principal provides instructional and operational leadership for the district's Early Childhood programs, including Early Childhood Education, Head Start, and Parents as Teachers. The principal is accountable for the effective operation, supervision and continuous improvement of programs serving children birth through age five, with an emphasis on developmentally appropriate practice, family engagement, compliance, and school readiness. Major responsibilities include oversight of the educational program, certified and classified staff, child development and well-being, facility management, fiscal and grant-related activities, and building strong family and community partnerships.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum of three (3) years of teaching experience, preferably in early childhood or elementary education

State certification applicable to principalship, with experience or endorsement in early childhood education preferred

Educational Specialist Degree required;
Doctorate preferred

Demonstrated effective leadership skills and administrative experience

Proven background in early childhood instruction, assessment, and professional development

Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and family-centered programming preferred

Knowledge of the Parents as Teachers programming preferred

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Participates in developing building and program goals aligned with district priorities and the unique needs of early learners and families.

Develops, implements, and evaluates Early Childhood, Head Start, and Parents as Teachers programs in accordance with district goals, state regulations, and federal requirements.

Provides leadership to ensure developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and trauma-informed practices across all early learning environments.

Oversees compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, state early childhood regulations, and district policies.

Works collaboratively with staff to improve instructional practices, assessment, and intervention strategies for young children.

Ensures staff involvement in goal-setting and continuous improvement efforts focused on child development, school readiness, and family outcomes.

Demonstrates effective screening, interviewing, and hiring practices to select qualified early childhood staff.

Observes instruction and provides timely, actionable feedback to support high-quality early learning experiences.

Plans and delivers ongoing professional development related to early childhood instruction, assessment, behavior support, family engagement, and regulatory compliance.

Provides orientation and mentoring for new Early Childhood, Head Start, and Parents as Teachers staff.

Monitors child progress, developmental data, and program outcomes throughout the year.

Ensures a safe, nurturing, orderly, and developmentally appropriate environment for children and families

Leads and supports family engagement initiatives, including parent education, home visiting programs, and community partnerships

Collaborates with community agencies and service providers to support children and families

Implements a systematic program of self-evaluation and program review to improve effectiveness and compliance

Communicates regularly with central office personnel regarding program needs, progress, concerns, and plans

Manages personnel, fiscal resources, grants, and facilities to ensure effective and efficient daily operations

The Excelsior Springs School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment of employment in its programs and activities. It is an Equal Opportunity Employer.