Childcare Center Director

Educators for Quality Alternatives (EQA) is a dedicated organization that serves students who have faced challenges in traditional educational settings, such as dropping out, being expelled, or struggling academically or behaviorally. Established in 2011, EQA has grown to operate three high school campuses — The NET: Central City, The NET: Gentilly, and The NET: East — along with a middle school called The Bridge, plus numerous wrap-around programs and supports for students and families. The mission of EQA Schools is to equip all students with the skills, confidence, and experiences necessary to succeed in the educational and career paths they choose. EQA stands by the belief that alternative schools should be vibrant, flexible, and restorative environments, focusing on supporting young people rather than punishing or trying to "fix" them.

The NEST:NOEOC is a vital part of the EQA ecosystem, functioning as a Type III Louisiana Department of Education licensed day care center located within the New Orleans East Opportunity Center. The NEST serves 17 children ranging in age from 6 weeks to 4 years old, providing care for infants and toddlers either on a permanent basis or as needed while their parents attend classes or work. The Center plays a crucial role in supporting EQA students by caring for their children and extends its services to families in the surrounding community.

This full-time Childcare Center Director position requires a valid Early Childhood Ancillary Certification (ECAC) and Type III Director Certification. The salary ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on experience and educational background, with future increases tied to performance and responsibilities. The position starts on July 1, 2026, and the work schedule is year-round with a generous leave policy. The NEST Director is responsible for the daily operations of the center, including childcare and instruction, staff development and management, family communication, licensing, and administrative compliance.

The Director provides and models loving care and high-quality instruction to all children, including those with disabilities. A strong emphasis is placed on safety, curriculum development, and direct involvement in childcare, as the Director is expected to spend at least 75 percent of the day working directly with children and modeling best practices for staff. Furthermore, the Director manages, coaches, and supports teachers through one-on-one meetings, professional development, and collaboration with external partners such as Agenda for Children.

Engagement with families is a cornerstone of this role, involving relationship-building, mentorship, developing parenting resources, and organizing community events that promote a supportive and restorative environment. Administrative duties include maintaining full and compliant enrollment, ensuring that the center meets all state, local, and federal requirements, keeping accurate records, managing inspections and licensing, and working closely with oversight organizations to maintain high-quality standards.

The successful candidate will bring at least five years of early childhood education teaching experience and three years of staff management within early childhood programs. Essential qualifications include expertise in working with children facing learning and emotional challenges, strong organizational and communication skills, up-to-date certifications in Pediatric CPR, First Aid, and early childhood training, and a passion for improving educational opportunities for urban students. A learning mindset, commitment to continuous improvement, and alignment with EQA's mission and vision are also fundamental.