09/05/2025
Executive Director of Early Childhood Education
Location: Denver, Colorado
Employment Type: Full-time
Negotiable Salary Range: $80,000 - $125,000
Application Deadline: 9/5/25
About Hope ECE Center, Inc.
HOPE Center, Inc., a nationally recognized, Black-led nonprofit founded in 1962, provides high-quality early childhood education and vocational programs for Denver’s northeast communities. We are currently seeking a visionary and results-driven Executive Director of Early Childhood Education with a proven record of accomplishment in program excellence, strategic innovation, and community engagement to guide our organization into its next era of impact.
Our Mission: Empower children and adults to thrive through inclusive, culturally responsive education and support services.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead strategic planning, program quality, and fiscal stewardship.
- Oversee curriculum development, staff & staff leadership, professional and business development.
- Ensure compliance with Colorado licensing and quality standards.
- Manage complex braided funding streams (CCCAP, UPK, DPP) and budgeting.
- Engage with the community, Board of Directors, funders, and business partners to advance our mission.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelors in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Human Development, Child Development, or approved related field.
- 10+ years of experience in early childhood education.
- 5+ years leading a large early education center.
- Director Qualified by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood.
- Expert knowledge of the Colorado Shines Quality Rating
- Improvement System Proficiency with the Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale (ECERS-3).
- Compliance experience with Colorado Child Care Licensing Rules and Regulations.
- 5+ years managing braided funding models (CCCAP, UPK, DPP) and ECE budgeting in Colorado.
- Knowledge and expertise in High Scope, Creative Curriculum, or other evidence-based ECE curriculum.
- Experience hiring, onboarding, leading and managing ECE teachers and staff, as well as licensed contractors.
- Experience developing comprehensive enrollment and family engagement strategies.
Preferred Qualifications
-Master’s in ECE, Human Development, Child Development, or approved related field.
-Experience reporting to and working with a Board of Directors.
Application Process
To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected] For more information, visit www.hopecenterinc.org.
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