Assistant Director of Head Start

Fort Valley State University•Fort Valley, GA

About The Position

The Assistant Head Start Director provides executive-level operational leadership and administrative oversight for the Fort Valley State University (FVSU) Head Start/Early Head Start program serving a funded enrollment of 402 children and families. This position supports the Head Start Director in ensuring full compliance with the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), 45 CFR Part 75 (Uniform Guidance), applicable federal and state regulations, and university policies.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, Public Administration, Social Work, Education, Human Services, or related field.
Minimum five (5) years of progressive leadership experience in Head Start or comparable federally funded programs.
Demonstrated knowledge of federal grant management and Head Start regulations.
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Assist in the overall administration and leadership of the Head Start/Early Head Start program serving 402 funded enrollment slots.
Ensure compliance with the Head Start Act, Head Start Program Performance Standards (45 CFR 1301-1305), 45 CFR Part 75, Georgia licensing regulations, and university policies.
Support strategic planning, implementation of school readiness goals, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
Monitor internal controls and support preparation for federal reviews, audits, and monitoring visits.
Collaborate with the Fiscal Officer and Director to monitor budget expenditure and ensure fiscal accountability.
Supervise and support service area managers and directors as assigned.
Prepare reports for Governing Body, Policy Council, and university leadership.
Utilize program data to identify trends and improve child outcomes and service delivery.
Serve as Acting Head Start Director when designated.
Perform all other duties as assigned by the Head Start Director or University leadership.
Ensure adherence to child safeguarding and active supervision policies across all program sites.
Ensure all staff complete mandated reporter training annually.
Serve as a Mandated Reporter of Child Abuse and Neglect in accordance with Georgia law.
Immediately report suspected abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities as required by law.
Support implementation of incident reporting systems, child safety monitoring, and documentation review processes.
Promote a culture of child protection, transparency, and zero tolerance for maltreatment.