The NEST:NOEOC

Childcare Center Director
(Full Time, Valid ECAC & Type III Director Certification Required)

Position Description

Educators for Quality Alternatives

EQA serves students who have dropped out, been expelled from, or have struggled academically or behaviorally in traditional settings and are looking for a supportive path to graduation. Started in 2011, the organization now has three high school campuses, The NET: Central City, The NET: Gentilly, and The NET: East, a middle school, The Bridge, and a myriad of wrap-around programs and supports for students and families. The mission of EQA Schools is to provide ALL students with the skills, confidence, and experiences necessary to succeed in the education and career paths of their choice.  EQA programs are built on the belief that alternative schools should not punish or "fix" young people; they should be vibrant, flexible, and restorative environments that support students in being their best selves. 

The NEST

To support its students, EQA operates two day care centers for their children and other families in the community. The NEST:NOEOC  is located within New Orleans East Opportunity Center, and is a Type III LDOE licensed day care center. The NEST serves 17 children at a time from 6 weeks to 4 years old. Our infants and toddlers attend on a permanent or as needed basis while their parents attend classes or work.  

Roles and Responsibilities 

The Center Director is responsible for the day to day management of the NEST, including but not limited to:  

Childcare & Instruction

• Provide and model loving care and instruction to all children, including children with disabilities, at all times.
• Develop, train on, implement, and progress monitor high quality curriculum and instruction.
• Maintain safety and security of children at all times
• Substitute for teachers as needed
• As a small center, the Director is expected to be in the Center caring for children and modeling for adults at least 75% of the day

Staff Development & Management

• Manage, develop, and coach NEST teachers through observations, feedback, and performance management
• Meet 1:1 weekly with each teacher to provide direct coaching and support
• Design and provide weekly professional development for staff
• Collaborate closely with coaches from Agenda for Children 
• Host and train student interns
• Work with EQA staff to develop and launch an onsite CDA training program

Family Communication & Coaching

• Develop relationships with NEST parents and provide positive mentorship on their parenting journey
• Develop parenting resources and supports for NEST parents
• Execute annual NEST events, celebrations, and traditions.
• Model and actively promote the use of restorative practices with children, staff, and families

Licensing & Administration

• Maintain full and complaint enrollment
• Maintain a safe, secure and prepared learning environment which meets all state, local, and federal requirements and best practices
• Maintain all records and requirements for state, local, and federal requirements
• Insure all state, local, and federal expectations are met
• Manage and pass/obtain all inspections, funding applications, and licenses
• Collaborate closely with Agenda for Children- attending trainings and meetings and following communications 

Position Requirements:

• 5+ years of experience teaching early childhood education
• 3+ years managing staff and programming in early childhood education 
• An early childhood ancillary certification (ECAC) is required as wells as bachelors degree or a National Administrator Credential (NAC) 
• Up to date on Pediatric CPR, First Aid and early childhood trainer certifications
• Specialized interest and skills in working with students with learning and emotional difficulties
• Strong computer and organizational skills and a history of meeting all licensing requirements and deadlines
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, relationship building & management skills
• Learning mindset dedicated to effectively and innovatively problem solving and constantly improving
• Passion for improving educational opportunities for urban students and for being a part of a strong, mission-driven team
• Commitment to EQA’s mission, vision and growth

Details

• Start Date: July 1, 2026
• Location: 12000 Hayne Blvd. 
• Schedule: School is year-round with a generous leave schedule.
• Salary: $50-65,000 depending upon experience. Initial salary is set based on years of experience and degrees. Future salary increases are based on performance and responsibilities.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits and 403b retirement plan