Mission & Core Values
Children of Joy Learning Academy is built on the values of Faith, Education, Service, and Community. The Department Lead plays a critical role in ensuring quality and excellence in every classroom. This role exists to provide oversight, leadership, and mentoring within a specific age-level department (Nursery, Toddler, Preschool, etc.), while ensuring fidelity to curriculum, compliance standards, and teacher support systems.
Job Summary
The Department Lead is responsible for quality control and assurance within their assigned department. This includes ensuring compliance with state and accreditation standards, coaching teachers, managing classroom schedules, supporting staff development, overseeing daily operations, and contributing to a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. Department Leads work closely with the Assistant and Program Directors to build high-performing teams and a consistent culture of excellence.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership & Department Oversight
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Lead and manage assigned department (Infant, Toddler, Preschool, etc.) with professionalism, integrity, and accountability
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Provide day-to-day guidance, mentorship, and support to staff within the department
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Ensure alignment with COJ mission, policies, curriculum goals, and teaching standards
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Manage staff schedules and submit updated rosters to leadership weekly
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Participate in interviews for potential new hires in the department; provide feedback on hiring recommendations
Quality Assurance & Classroom Oversight
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Monitor classroom practices for compliance with DHS, APPLE Accreditation, and COJ policies
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Conduct regular walkthroughs to review curriculum implementation, transitions, classroom cleanliness, and child engagement
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Report compliance concerns or documentation gaps to the Assistant Director or Program Director
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Ensure that focus portfolios, lesson plans, and department records are reviewed, updated, and submitted on time
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Check for complete and accurate documentation, including: developmental checklists, temperature logs, infant meal sheets, supply lists, cleaning checklists, and lesson plans
Curriculum & Instructional Support
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Ensure implementation of the FrogStreet curriculum aligned with the Oklahoma Early Learning Guidelines
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Offer feedback on lesson planning and classroom execution
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Support teachers in modifying lessons to meet children's individual needs and learning styles
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Monitor use of classroom materials and ensure intentional instruction
Communication & Family Relations
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Model and support positive communication between teachers and families
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Build strong relationships with parents and provide updates as needed
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Assist with department-level family engagement initiatives
Environment & Safety Compliance
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Maintain a clean, organized, and developmentally appropriate learning environment
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Ensure classrooms are well-stocked and that staff submit weekly supply needs
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Oversee completion of daily and weekly cleaning tasks in assigned rooms
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Identify safety concerns and report facility needs promptly
Team Collaboration & Training
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Participate in monthly leadership meetings and department check-ins
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Support the Assistant Director in planning and delivering department-specific professional development
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Ensure team members complete required training (CPR, ELCCT, Pyramid, ELGs, etc.)
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Encourage growth and coaching through modeling best practices and peer feedback
Minimum Qualifications
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Level 2 or higher on the Oklahoma PDL (Professional Development Ladder), or actively pursuing certification
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First Aid, CPR, ELCCT, Safe Sleep, Pyramid Model, ELG, and Focused Portfolio trainings completed or in progress
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Minimum 2 year of classroom experience in early childhood education
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Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills
Preferred Qualifications
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CDA, Certificate of Mastery, or degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development
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Prior supervisory or team lead experience
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Familiarity with FrogStreet curriculum and Oklahoma Early Learning Guidelines
Physical Requirements
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Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and actively engage with children
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Frequent walking, standing, bending, squatting, and kneeling
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Must be able to respond quickly to emergency situations and classroom needs
Training & Development
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Participate in leadership development sessions, department lead meetings, and training opportunities throughout the year
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Assist with onboarding and mentoring new teachers in the department
Performance Evaluation
Performance will be evaluated by the Assistant Director and Program Director on a quarterly and annual basis. Key metrics include classroom quality, compliance tracking, staff growth, and documentation accuracy.
