Childcare Program Director - Springfield Area Schools AM & PM Care

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.
We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become.
We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality.
We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.
We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential.
We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
The Ozarks Regional YMCA strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy regarding child abuse & misconduct.

The Childcare Director is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and quality assurance of YMCA Before and After School Programs. This position provides strategic oversight of program operations, staff supervision, child development initiatives, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. A primary focus of this role is developing and implementing effective behavior management systems, supporting children with diverse learning and behavioral needs, reviewing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans, and creating individualized accommodation plans that promote inclusion, safety, and success for all participants.

The Childcare Director ensures YMCA programs reflect the organization's mission, values, and commitment to youth development while fostering an inclusive environment where every child can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

• Direct and oversee all Before and After School Program operations.
• Ensure programs meet or exceed YMCA standards, state licensing requirements, and school district expectations.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that support program excellence and participant safety.
• Monitor enrollment, staffing levels, budgets, and program performance metrics.
• Conduct regular site visits to ensure quality, compliance, and consistency across all program locations.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, incident documentation, and compliance files.
• Serve as the YMCA's lead resource for behavior management practices and intervention strategies.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate behavior support plans for children demonstrating social, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
• Train staff in evidence-based behavior management techniques, de-escalation strategies, trauma-informed care, and positive youth development practices.
• Provide coaching and guidance to site directors and frontline staff regarding behavior concerns.
• Analyze behavior incidents and identify trends to improve program practices and outcomes.
• Facilitate meetings with families, school personnel, and YMCA staff to address behavioral concerns and establish support strategies.
• Ensure behavior management practices align with YMCA values and maintain the dignity and respect of every child.
• Review student IEPs, 504 Plans, behavioral intervention plans, and other educational documentation as appropriate.
• Collaborate with parents, school districts, special education personnel, and YMCA staff to identify necessary supports.
• Develop individualized accommodation plans that enable students to successfully participate in YMCA programs.
• Ensure accommodations are communicated effectively to site staff and implemented consistently.
• Monitor accommodation effectiveness and revise plans as necessary.
• Maintain confidentiality and compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding student information.
• Advocate for inclusive programming and equitable participation opportunities for children with diverse abilities and needs.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate program staff.
• Develop professional development opportunities focused on youth development, inclusion, behavior management, and child safety.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and coaching sessions.
• Foster a positive team culture that supports professional growth and accountability.
• Build strong partnerships with families, schools, community agencies, and special education professionals.
• Respond to parent concerns…