EarlyON Program Coordinator

Non-Union Position
Reporting to: EarlyON Program Manager and Quality Assurance
Salary: $30.39 – $37.97

This posting represents a current and active vacancy.

Job Summary:

Under the guidance of the Program Manager of EarlyON Quality Assurance, the EarlyON Program Coordinator will play a pivotal role in nurturing the growth and development of children aged 0-6 and supporting their families within our District.  The EarlyON Program Coordinator is responsible for coordinating administrative tasks and providing hands-on support at program locations. The ideal candidate is highly organized, collaborative, and passionate about early childhood education.

The responsibilities include supervising and supporting activities, facilitating engaging experiences, collaborating with community partners, promoting parent-child interaction, and fostering community involvement. The role involves assisting outreach efforts, maintaining program documentation, and creating an inclusive environment within EarlyON Child & Family Centres in the District of Cochrane. This includes all service providers and directly operated centres within the district.

Key Responsibilities:

• Schedule staff according to program and centre needs
• Manage program registration and waitlists
• Review and track attendance sheets weekly
• Collaborate with staff to ensure program calendars meet weekly requirements
• Support and review the creation of Canva posters and Calendars
• Input monthly calendars into Google Calendar
• Manage Facebook’s Scheduled Posts
• Support the Program Manager of EarlyON Quality Assurance with special projects and initiatives
• Assist in coordinating and supporting Professional Development opportunities under the direction of the Program Manager
• Assist in program planning and implementation, providing support where needed
• Fill in for programming as required
• Build relationships with staff and ensure programming reflects EarlyON values and guidelines

Program Planning and Implementation:

• Design and deliver developmentally appropriate programs that reflect the diverse needs of the community.
• Ensure programs are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and align with the principles of “How Does Learning Happen?” Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years.
• Coordinate and facilitate EarlyON drop-in sessions, playgroups, events, and parenting workshops that promote early learning, parent-child interaction, and community engagement.
• Guide centre employees to implement a play-based approach to learning.

Family Engagement:

• Build strong, respectful relationships with families, encouraging their active participation in the program.
• Support families in their parenting journey, providing resources and referrals as needed.

Community Collaboration:

• Build and maintain strong connections with local community organizations and resources.
• Work collaboratively with community partners to enhance program offerings and support services for families.
• Participate in and organize community events and initiatives.
• Engage in outreach and support efforts to encourage participation in EarlyON programs.

Education and Support:

• Stay informed about Ontario’s Early Learning Framework and “How Does Learning Happen?” and integrate its principles into EarlyON programming.
• Actively engage in professional development opportunities to enhance program effectiveness and stay updated on best practices in early childhood education.
• Participate in monthly PLC groups to continue learning.
• Engage in at least three Professional Development Opportunities, outside of regular working hours, per year.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and guidance to support part-time and casual staff in implementing a play-based approach to learning and providing children with positive learning experiences.

Observation and Assessment:

• Observe and document children’s development and learning progress.
• Use assessments to inform programming and support individual needs.
• Provide feedback and support to parents regarding their child’s development.

Environment Management:

• Create and maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive physical and emotional environment for children and families.

Administration:

• Maintain accurate records of program activities and participant engagement.
• Use feedback and evaluation data to inform program improvements.
• Maintain mandatory pedagogical documentation and evaluation processes to assess the effectiveness and impact of EarlyON initiatives.
• Manage program logistics, including scheduling, reporting, and maintaining accurate records.
• Adhere to a 35-hour work week schedule, including two evening and two weekend programs monthly, to accommodate the needs of the community and ensure accessibility to EarlyON programs across the District of Cochrane.

Core Competencies:

• Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusion: Demonstrates understanding and respect for the diverse cultural backgrounds and needs of families. Adapts programs and interactions to be inclusive and equitable for all participants.
• Communication Skills: Exhibits excellent verbal and written communication skills, facilitating clear, respectful, and effective interactions with children, families, colleagues, and community partners.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: Shows ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances within the community, demonstrating flexibility in program planning and delivery.
• Relationship Building: Builds and maintains positive, trusting relationships with families, colleagues, and community partners, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
• Leadership and Initiative: Takes initiative in planning and delivering high-quality programs. Leads by example, promoting best practices in early childhood education and care.
• Problem Solving: Effectively identifies and addresses challenges, using creativity and resourcefulness to find solutions that meet the needs of children and families.
• Organizational Skills: Manages time and resources efficiently, ensuring programs are well-planned and executed. Maintains accurate documentation and records.
• Creativity and Innovation: Develops and implements innovative and creative approaches to early childhood education, ensuring programs are engaging, dynamic, and responsive to the needs of the community.

Core Values:

• Respect: We honor the individuality and diversity of all families, children, and community members, creating an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
• Inclusivity: We commit to creating programs and spaces that are welcoming and accessible to everyone, regardless of cultural background, ability, or socio-economic status.
• Equity: We strive to provide equal opportunities for all families and children, addressing and removing barriers to participation.
• Empathy: We approach our work with kindness and understanding, supporting families with compassion and care.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of working together with families, colleagues, and community partners to achieve the best outcomes for children.
• Lifelong Learning: We are dedicated to continuous improvement and professional growth, staying informed about best practices in early childhood education and cultural competency.
• Community: We foster a strong sense of community, encouraging connections and relationships that support the well-being of children and families.
• Creativity and Innovation: We value creativity and innovation, constantly seeking new ways to enhance our programs and services to better meet the needs of children and families.

Job Requirements:

• Good knowledge of the Child Care Early Years Act, 2014, ELECT, and “How Does Learning Happen?” Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations.
• Ability to regulate emotions in difficult situations.
• Good judgment and tact when dealing with sensitive issues.
• Ability to make decisions based on established policies and procedures, with some independent decision-making required.
• Time management skills.
• Analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of the full range of programs delivered by the CDSSAB, including Ontario Works, Child Care, EMS, and Social Housing.

Education & Experience:

• Early Childhood Educator Diploma or a degree or diploma in Human Services.
• Ages & Stages Training an asset
• Member in good standing with the College of Early Childhood Educators

Conditions of Employment:

• Satisfactory Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Safety
• Use of a vehicle required.
• Travel required.
• Must maintain confidentiality.
• Bilingualism in accordance with the French Language Services policy.

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The Cochrane District Social Service Administration Board is committed to equity in its policies, practices, and programs. The Board supports diversity in the work environment and ensures that applications from members of underrepresented groups are seriously considered. All qualified individuals who would contribute to the diversification of our workplace are encouraged to apply.

Join us in fostering a love of learning and exploration in the early years. Apply today and be a part of our vibrant EarlyON community!