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Position Number: CLA21-446

College of the Canyons
Santa Clarita Community College District

announces an employment opportunity for

Program Director, Center for Early Childhood Education and Director Preschool Progarms

A Classified Administrator (Management) Position

Review Date: August 1, 2022

This position is a high priority for our District for the 2022-2023 year and is contingent upon continued available district, grant and state funding.

 

The diversity of applicants will be assessed. Upon review, if the pool does not include sufficient diversity, the application window may be extended.        

The Santa Clarita Community College District/College of the Canyons is seeking a full-time Program Director, Center for Early Childhood Education and Director Preschool Programs in the Early Childhood Education Center.

Who We Are

The Santa Clarita Community District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As presented in our District Strategic Plan, which focuses on Access, Engagement, and Success, “Equity, inclusion, and diversity are not goals in themselves, but ideologies embedded in all actions and planning across all departments and functions of our college and its two campuses.” These areas of focus demonstrate a resolve to focus on student success and confirm that we are at the forefront of change with integrated planning efforts that both evolve and anticipate the needs of our students. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences — fostering healthy inclusion through inquiry, shared dialogue and reflection to ensure that we promote a sense of community, collegiality and cooperation. When you join our team at the Santa Clarita Community College District, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, creative, flexible, innovative and equity-focused community that engages students, each other, and the community in scholarly inquiry, creative partnerships, and the application of knowledge and success.

The College and the District

College of the Canyons is part of the Santa Clarita Community College District and is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), enrolling approximately 32,000 students each academic year. College of the Canyons has a diverse student population that reflects our focus on enhancing the educational attainment and economic well-being of the community we proudly serve. Detailed information about our student population, including data related to student success, can be found on the College of Canyons Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness (IRPIE) website. Additionally, College of the Canyons, was recently honored as a 2021 Bellwether College Consortium award winner, was honored in 2018, 2019, and 2021 with the Champion of Higher Education award, was ranked #1 in Los Angeles County during 2019 as the best two-year college for adult learners, and is rated #1 in Los Angeles County for completion rates by college-prepared students. It is distinguished as one of the top transfer institutions in Los Angeles County.

Who We Want

We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate must be an equity-minded individual committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students and community partners who share our commitment to closing equity gaps. The Santa Clarita Community College District seeks leaders possessing a strong grounding in academic and student services programs and a thorough understanding of the primary mission of the community college. We seek employees that value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, who are conscientious risk takers and transformational leaders guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals.

"BIG PICTURE" RESPONSIBILITY:

Under the direction of the Dean, School of Business, the Director leads and manages the Center for Early Childhood Education and all associated offsite locations in collaboration with the Assistant Director.  The Center serves as a training facility for college students, and as quality care and education program for children of students, staff/faculty and community.

Canyons Hall

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  1. Leads in the strategic planning, action plans, and implementation of the college Administrative Program Review, California Department of Social Services-Child Care and Development Division (CDSS-CCDD), California Department of Education-Early Education Division (CDE-EED), Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accreditation standards; including and not limited to annual reports.
  2. Works collaboratively with center staff and faculty to plan, implement and model program objectives and procedures for the health and safety of enrolled children.
  3. Manages daily operations of the campus center which includes but not limited to the following: opening, closing and securing the facility.
  4. Supervises the preparation and implementation of daily lesson plans and program objectives, planning and implementing a program for staff development and in-service training.
  5. Prepares required reports for the college district and funding agencies, insuring that standards are maintained for state licensing and national accreditation and programmatic reports for funded programs.
  6. Assists in preparing and managing the ECE center’s budget while applying fiscally responsible approaches and cost saving measures to prevent need for subsidization from the District. Maintains compliance with all grants related to the children’s program.
  7. Conducts campus Children’s Programs in accordance with the college Early Childhood Education Program’s educational philosophy.
  8. Maintains staff hiring practices and arranges for substitute teachers or assistants as needed.
  9. Supervises center staff in the performance of center related duties and conducts employee evaluations as needed.
  10. Revises staff and parent handbooks at least annually.
  11. Conducts parent orientations as needed.
  12. Participates on the Center (parent) Advisory Committee.
  13. Participates in local, regional and state activities to promote the college, the Center and the ECE department
  14. Promotes and facilitates collaboration with faculty from various educational programs to support student learning outcomes, meet accreditation standards as applicable and create an environment conducive to student learning.
  15. Maintains an understanding of current trends, research and practices in the field of child development and early childhood education through continued study and participation in professional organizations
  16. Maintains effective lines of communication with the State Department of Education, the Department of Public Social Services, Community Care Licensing and other agencies.
  17. Works with external agencies to maintain compliance for all federal, state, and local guidelines to include but not limited to regulatory agencies, fire protection, and safe food handling.
  18. Works collaboratively with faculty and center staff to plan and implement a cost effective, developmentally appropriate educational program, and provide a safe, clean and nurturing learning environment for all children in the campus center.
  19. Interprets the Early Childhood Education program to the general public through community contacts and participation in community activities.
  20. Conducts and documents emergency response/safety drills as necessary to meet compliance standards for any external regulatory agency.
  21. Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in ECE or related field and background in teaching and managing Preschool Programs.

Experience:

Five (5) years teaching experience in Infant/Toddler and Preschool Programs.

Other requirements:

  • Must possess a Child Development Permit at the Site Supervisor or Program Director level.
  • Must have Child Health/Adult, Infant and Child CPR (CPR/health certificate must be completed within 30 days of employment.)

DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:

  • Knowledge of State child development division regulations, Title V and Title 22, for a State-funded program.
  • Knowledge of principles, methods and technologies of supervising and operating Infant /toddler program and of budgeting and supervision. Title V and Title 22 State regulations governing the operation of the center.
  • Knowledge of long and short-range planning techniques; community college operations. 

Ability to:

  • Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to, and understanding of the diverse academic, socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic and disability backgrounds of community college students
  • Ability to work effectively with computers and other forms of advanced technology utilized in providing high quality services.
  • Ability to prepare and present reports.
  • Ability to work variable hours.

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL COMMUNITY COLLEGE LEADER:

Every administrator with the college is expected to be:

  • Committed to Student Access, Engagement, and Success.
  • Willing to take strategic risks related to student-oriented change.
  • Capable of building strong teams.
  • Motivated to establish urgency for improvement.
  • Able to plan lasting internal change.
  • Results-oriented, ensuring effective implementation, routine assessment of programs and continuous data-informed improvement.
  • Effective at communicating and listening to foster strong relationships, shared priorities, and inspire trust and action.
  • Considerate of fiscal responsibilities and sound operations.
  • Dedicated to entrepreneurial fundraising that aligns to student access, engagement, and success goals.
  • Effective in developing effective external partnerships to achieve broader aims for student success.
  • A creative, innovative, energetic instructional leader; a technologically sophisticated professional who is skilled in various technology applications.
  • A supporter of consistent and on-going professional development initiatives, in pursuit of the college’s strategic goals.
  • A fair-minded, ethical, and honest leader with excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the courage and integrity to lead and accept responsibility.

SALARY PLACEMENT:

This 12-month Classified Administrator position will be placed on Range 8 of the Administrator Salary Schedule ($7,463.00 - $7,689.00 per month).

Step placement is based on experience. Initial salary step placement for new employees is customarily at step 1, 2, or 3 ($7,463.00, $7,575.00, or $7,689.00 per month) of this 20-step salary range.

All administrators are on an employment contract and exempt from overtime and compensatory time accumulation.

DISTRICT CLASSIFIED ADMINISTRATOR BENEFITS:

Full-time employees are provided with a diversified employee benefits program that includes sick time, vacation time, discretionary time, medical, dental and vision insurance including dependent coverage, disability and life insurance as well as Section 125 options. These benefits commence on the first of the month following date of hire. Professional development and educational incentive opportunities are provided to all classified administrative employees. 

RETIREMENT: Classified employees contribute to the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), a defined benefit retirement plan through the State of California.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Position requires sitting and viewing a computer monitor for extended periods of time; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard; reaching, bending, and stooping; frequently exert 10 to 20 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects; hearing and speaking to communicate and provide information to others; vision to read printed material and computer monitor.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

  • Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening. 
  • Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
  • Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
  • Board of Trustees approval.
  • Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment.
  • Ability to maintain a flexible workweek with hours that may vary.
  • Position is contingent upon funding and is subject to change.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

Santa Clarita Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified employees who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students.  The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not unlawfully discriminate in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 years and over), sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status, protected medical leaves (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law  or on the basis of these perceived characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources office directly at (661) 362-3427.

Students

ABOUT THE DISTRICT:

Innovative. Collaborative. Entrepreneurial. These characteristics not only define College of the Canyons, they are embodied by the faculty, staff and administrators who make this college unique among the 116 California Community Colleges.

Established in 1969, College of the Canyons is among the fastest-growing colleges in California and the nation. It is widely recognized as a model community college for enhancing student access, success and equity. Its completion rates rank among the highest in the state. The college has established a well-deserved reputation for bolstering economic development and offering innovative career technical education responsive to industry needs.

Guided by visionary leadership, the college serves a 367-square-mile area of northern Los Angeles County that includes the dynamic, growing Santa Clarita Valley. A steady influx of new residents and businesses creates a spirit of possibilities that inspires the college to be flexible, creative and attuned to the community’s evolving needs. The growing diversity of the community is mirrored by the college, which qualifies as a Latino-serving institution.

The college’s influence in the community is best illustrated by the dozens of collaborative partnerships it has forged with local school districts, government entities and service organizations. Examples include the Performing Arts Center’s K-12 Arts Education Outreach initiative, which allows thousands of children to experience the arts each year, and Academy of the Canyons, an early/middle college high school at the Valencia campus that is ranked among the top 10 percent of high schools in the nation.

With campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country, the college offers 96 associate degree programs, including 31 associate degree for transfer (AD-T) options, as well as 148 certificate programs. Classes are offered during traditional fall and spring semesters, as well as shorter, intensive summer and winter sessions. Additional educational opportunities exist at the University Center, whose four-year colleges and universities offer approximately 30 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, as well certificate and credential programs.

Because of the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of the community, local voters have approved two bond measures valued at more than $470 million since 2001. The college also secures substantial funds from the state and millions of dollars in grants each year that allow new, cutting-edge programs to be developed and facilities built to accommodate them.

Given its commitment to growth and innovation, College of the Canyons sets a new standard for what a college can achieve. It is a vital cultural, educational and economic force in the region. Join us to discover unexpected possibilities, the freedom to innovate and an opportunity to shape the future.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online at https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources office at (661)362-3427 or for the hearing impaired TTY/TDD Line at (661)362-5178.  Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 4 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.

All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources office by the end of the day on the Review Date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings.  The Human Resources office is located in the University Center, Suite #360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.

Your application is not complete until the following required materials have been uploaded online or received by the Human Resources office:

  • An Online District CLASSIFIED Application.
  • Detailed resume, which includes month/year dates of employment and descriptions of responsibilities at each employer.
  • Letter of interest (cover letter). In your letter, please address your qualifications and experience as they pertain to the job duties, the demonstrated knowledge, and the abilities section of this announcement.
  • Copies of complete and legible college transcripts clearly indicating all college units earned and any degree(s) awarded. You can submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment. Please see our website for the requirements for evaluation of transcripts from foreign colleges or universities.
  • Confidential Recruitment Source Information (voluntary survey). This is voluntary and is a part of the online applicant profile, separate from the application.
  • Supplemental Questionnaire. Please answer the following questions as part of your application packet.
    1. Do you possess the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree (120 semester units) or higher from an accredited college or university in Early Childhood Education or related field, which includes Infant/Toddler units? (yes/no) If yes, please provide a legible copy of your college/university transcript in your application packet. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. If no, you do not meet the minimum qualifications for this position.
    2. Do you possess the equivalent of five (5) years of full-time experience in Infant/Toddler and Preschool Programs or in a comparable position which would demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the duties that are essential to this position?
    3. Describe your experience administering or working with budgets.
    4. Describe your experience working with an administrative software program (such as Banner, Datatel, or PeopleSoft) or a proprietary system.
    5. Please describe your experience researching and preparing reports for County, State, and Federal agencies.
    6. How has your background and experiences prepared you to be effective in an environment that values diversity?
  • Letters of reference are optional.

Please note:

  • Skills evaluation of candidates for interview may be required.
  • Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
  • Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
  • “Experience” generally refers to relevant paid experience. In some instances, unpaid experience may be counted as experience towards meeting the minimum qualifications or requirements for the position only if it entailed responsibilities substantially similar to those of relevant paid positions in the field.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide sufficient information and details to the Human Resources office at the time of submission of their application packet.  Details should include the organization, contact name and contact information, start and end dates, hours per week, and a list of relevant unpaid/volunteer duties or responsibilities performed.  Not all unpaid experience may qualify.  Upon offer of employment, an applicant will be required to obtain written verification(s) of any relevant unpaid/volunteer experience.
  • Current COC employees who are applying for this position: Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant. 
  • Please be aware that, should you be considered as a finalist for this position, reference checks will include current supervisor(s).
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you need assistance with the application process, contact:

Human Resources Office

(661) 362-3427

TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website at

https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District.  Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.

The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews between the week of August 23rd and  conduct final interviews the week of August 31st. This is an estimated timeline, and is subject to change.

Interviews may be conducted in-person or remotely via Zoom.

Position is offered contingent on funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until the position is filled. This recruitment may be used for future vacancies.

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