Founding Director, JCC Early Learning Center and After-School Pr

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Founding Director, JCC of Wilton/Weston/Redding/Ridgefield Early Learning Center and After-School Pr
JCC of Stamford
1035 Newfield Ave
Stamford, CT 06905

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 Jump Start (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 2027
• Work with architects and contractors so classrooms meet licensing, accessibility and accreditation standards
• Hire and train a founding team that meets OEC and NAEYC staff qualifications
• Build an inclusive, play-based curriculum grounded in child development and Jewish values
• Meet a founding enrollment goal through outreach in Wilton, Redding, Ridgefield, Weston and surrounding towns
• Set tuition and manage the budget with Finance, and prepare for Care 4 Kids and state-funded programs
• Lead the center through NAEYC accreditation
• Plan and launch the licensed K-5 after-school program

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree, preferably in early childhood education, child development or education
• At least 8 years of experience in early learning, camp or school settings, including significant classroom teaching experience
• At least 3 years in an administrative or leadership role
• A record of opening a new program or site, or significantly growing enrollment
• Experience with inclusive classrooms
• Meets 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 hire