Title

Director Competency in the Early Childhood Center: A Successful Center Depends on a Competent Director

Author

Linda Gronholz, Concordia University, St. Paul

Date of Award

2004

Document Type

Non Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Education

Program

Early Childhood Education

Capstone Instructor

Cecelia Westby

Second Reader

Carmen Cook

Keywords

early childhood education, leadership

Abstract

A competent early childhood director is essential for achieving quality early childhood care. The role of directing is challenging and may be quite intimidating to the newly called or hired worker. Directors need to gain knowledge in many areas of organizational leadership, ranging from administrating a developmentally appropriate program, recruiting families with children, setting up curriculum and environments, informing others on the program, managing a sound financial facility, to training, collaborating with and retaining staff, acquisition of beneficial continuing education, and ability to research any given topic. This capstone contains information addressing the importance of a skilled and competent director in the success of an early childhood center. The sections or chapters of this paper may be used to guide and support new directors. Chapters two and three specifically address two areas of competency: staff development and family relations.

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