Department Summary:

The Mission of Head Start and Early Head Start is a noble one: "Better preparing young children and their families for now and in the future." Drake University Head Start and Early Head Start programs support the comprehensive development of children from birth to Age 5, in classroom settings, home-based programs, and child care partner locations.

Job Summary:

This position is responsible for leading program delivery and supervising classroom staff. Coordinators are charged with the duty of fostering relationships with agency partners and community members.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's Degree with graduate or undergraduate coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or Elementary School Administration.

Minimum of 3 years working with young children and families with direct classroom instruction, administrative, and/or supervision experience.

A current Iowa Driver's License and the ability to be covered under the University's insurance carrier are required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Head Start Experience

Job Duties:

• 40% - Supervise and support assigned staff in the development and implementation of quality early childhood programming and family services. Assess the needs of each program and respond in a timely and collaborative manner to fulfill observed needs. Oversee, coordinate, evaluate, and monitor instruction delivery, classroom management, and center licensing compliance. Empower staff members by encouraging team effort and complete performance appraisals of direct reports.
• 15% - Promote broad public understanding and awareness of Drake University Head Start and its relationship to the community. Collaborate with partners and outside agencies/consultants/vendors. Provide leadership in local, state, and/or regional organizations, as assigned.
• 15% - Assist in the administration and management of Drake University Head Start which includes development of job descriptions, interviewing, and selection of teaching staff. Promote successful classroom performance for each teaching team. Assist with procuring classroom supplies and program budgeting as requested.
• 15% - Collaborate with members of the leadership team to develop and implement procedure updates aligned with legislative developments, trends, and issues that impact children and families. Communicate pertinent information regarding agency goals and expectations to direct reports. Foster a climate of support and collaboration. Create and maintain accurate reports and records within applicable regulations and Performance Standards. 
• 5% - Monitor facility and on-site projects to ensure maximum effectiveness, completion, and compliance.
• 5% - Participate in professional development through leading training sessions, attendance at conferences, training opportunities, and seeking out research and evidence-based practices related to early childhood development. 
• 5% - Federal Head Start Program Performance Standards, state and local regulations, rules and requirements compliance. Maintain strict confidentiality of all records and documents. Maintain department records and reports in a secure manner. Represent Drake University and Drake University Head Start in a professional manner. Treat clients, co-workers, staff, parents and community members with respect and civility, and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for everyone at all times. React to change productively, maintain prompt and regular attendance, and perform all other duties as assigned. Promote Head Start philosophy and initiatives. 

Salary and Benefits:

At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time with our Drake Benefits Guide 2026. One of our popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. Tuition Benefits