Child Development, Communication Skills, Customer Support/Service, Early Childhood Education, Faculty Administration, Funding, Interpersonal Skills, Leadership, Licensing, Organizational Skills, People Management, Policy Implementation, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Primary School, Problem Solving Skills, Procedure Implementation, Special Education, Strategic Planning, Team Player, Time Management, Training/Teaching, Training/Teaching Curriculum, Writing Skills
Director - University School for Young Children
Salary
Depends on Qualifications
Location
Cape Girardeau, MO
Job Type
Full-Time
Job Number
202600128
Division
Academic Affairs
Department
College of Education, Health and Human Studies
Opening Date
06/05/2026
Position Summary
Director
University School for Young Children
College of Education, Health and Human Studies
Full time
Primary Responsibilities
- Provide direct leadership for the University School for Young Children (USYC)
- Develop and implement USYC policies and procedures, as well as the annual calendar
- Oversee all daily management tasks of the Center
- Provide supervision of Center staff, University students and volunteers
- Coordinate the on-site supervision and training of University students in a laboratory school setting and practicum courses
- Provide for the evaluation and creation of professional development plans for all staff members on an annual basis
- Observe classrooms and provides feedback to staff on regular basis
- Develop programs that are inclusive of family outreach strategies and family centered activities
- Engage in critical assessment of professional development needs and participates in relevant professional development activities because of assessment
- Conduct on-site staff meetings
- Work consistently on all requirements for Missouri state licensing and NAEYC accreditation
- Seek grant funding opportunities for the benefit of families and the school
Required Qualifications
- Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, Early Childhood Special Education or related field
- Experience in supervision and management
- Minimum of five years, experience in an early childhood setting as a teacher and/or administrator
- Knowledge of Missouri licensing standards
- Experience with implementing NAEYC developmentally appropriate practice
- Knowledge of NAEYC program accreditation
- Familiarity with major approaches and current in early childhood education including Creative Curriculum, Reggio Emilia, the Project Approach, and emergent curriculum
- Experience in assessment of young children including developing portfolios for children
- Experience problem solving skills
- Knowledge regarding technology and its appropriate use in early childhood education
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent teamwork and organizational skills
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with young children and families, university students, faculty, staff and public
- Demonstrated experience and understanding of customer service
Required Information & Deadline
Application Deadline: The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by June 19, 2026.
To Apply: Submit the following items online by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page:
- Letter of interest addressing position qualifications
- Current Resume
- Names and contact information of three professional references may be asked for at a later date
Additional Information
About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.
SEMO Fast Facts
SEMO Strategic Action Plan
Southeast Missouri State University provides an excellent benefits package. For complete benefit details visit our website at https://semo.edu/hr.
Employer Southeast Missouri State University
Address 1 University Plaza
Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 63701
Phone (573) 651-2206
Website http://www.semo.edu
S
Southeast Missouri State University