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Introducing…Competencies for Program Directors Of Early Childhood and Afterschool Programs

Competencies for Program Directors Of Early Childhood and Afterschool Programs are anchored to these assumptions that guide their use:

1. Research consistently reports that competent directors are essential to a successful program for children and families.
2. Effective administration of a center requires a strong foundation in child development and education as well as business and management knowledge.
3. Administrative functions include a multitude of tasks and systems designed to carry out the program’s mission.
4. Leadership requires that managers have the vision to focus on the larger picture, anticipate trends, and set new goals.
5. The role of the director is multifaceted and dynamic. Though all competencies may not be required in a particular job, directors should strive to acquire all the skills and knowledge reflected in the competencies.
6. Competencies are emergent and develop over time with experience, education, and intention.

The term “Program Director” is used to describe the role of the person or the team responsible for the day-to-day operation, supervision, and administration of the program and for planning, implementing, and evaluating the program. It is a broad role, requiring leadership and oversight of the place, the program, and the people.

Competencies for Program Directors of Early Childhood and Afterschool Programs are organized around five knowledge areas deemed essential to the position of a director.

Child and Youth Development
Families and Communities
Teaching and Learning/Curriculum and Learning Environments
Healthy and Safe Environments
Professionalism and Program Organization

All of the competencies are relevant for continuing professional development as a director in this field; however individual job descriptions may not require a director to use all of the competencies. Acquiring most of the competencies and having knowledge of all the competencies promotes growth and development for both the director and the organization.

Download a complete copy of the document:

• Competencies for Program Directors of Early Childhood and Afterschool Programs

Download a section of the document. Program Directors can use this tool to assess their own skills, knowledge and attitudes, and as a guide to their professional development planning.

• Competencies Assessment Tool for Program Director

© Vermont Northern Lights Career Development Center
Last modified June 11, 2009