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

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 2027
• 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

Position Requirement

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
• Employment is contingent on all background checks required by Connecticut law for child care staff
• Master's degree
• Experience directing a licensed child care center
• Experience with NAEYC accreditation
• Experience with school-age after-school programs
• Connections to the Wilton, Redding and Ridgefield communities
• Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors, sit on the floor, move quickly and lift up to 40 pounds
• Before opening, work at the Wilton site and the Stamford campus as needed; valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Full-time, Monday through Friday, with a long program day and occasional evening family events

Preferred

Physical Requirements and Schedule

Compensation and Benefits

95,000 - 105,000

Benefits: Medical, dental and vision insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; employee discount; complimentary JCC membership.

JCC Info

• 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.