Deputy Director of Head Start

Overview

FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, invites applications for the position of Deputy Director of Head Start. Fort Valley State University is the only 1890 land-grant university in Georgia and serves over 2,800 students including graduate students. The campus is located in Fort Valley, Peach County, with a 1,365-acre campus. FVSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or marital or veteran status.

The Deputy Director serves as assistant to the Executive/Head Start Director and supports the leadership, coordination, and oversight of Comprehensive Services areas within the Head Start and Early Head Start program. The role ensures operations remain compliant with the Head Start Act, Head Start Program Performance Standards (45 CFR Parts ), federal regulations, state licensing requirements, and university policies. This role operates under the direction of the Head Start Director, who retains full authority and responsibility for overall program administration and management.

Essential Duties / Responsibilities

• Serve as Assistant to the Executive/Head Start Director in coordinating the daily operations of the Head Start and Early Head Start program.
• Support implementation of program policies, procedures, and initiatives.
• Assist with strategic planning, program development, and coordination across program service areas.
• Ensure services align with Head Start mission, goals, and federal requirements.
• The Deputy Director provides oversight and coordination of the following Comprehensive Services Directors and areas: Family and Community Engagement / Family Services; Education Services; Health and Nutrition Services; Program Development and Compliance; Facilities and Safety; Supporting department directors in implementing services aligned with Head Start Performance Standards (45 CFR 1302).
• Ensure collaboration between service areas and review departmental operations to maintain quality service delivery.
• Provide guidance and technical assistance to department directors and staff; provide leadership and oversight to Comprehensive Services Directors and related staff.
• Monitor staff performance and adherence to program policies and procedures; support professional development and training; promote collaboration across departments.
• Assist the Head Start Director in ensuring compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, the Head Start Act, federal monitoring requirements, and state licensing regulations.
• Assist with preparation for federal monitoring reviews including Focus Area and RAN reviews; support internal monitoring and continuous quality improvement processes.
• Serve as a Mandated Reporter in accordance with state law and Head Start requirements; provide guidance to staff on mandated reporting procedures.
• Monitor program data related to comprehensive services and ensure accurate and timely reporting of program information; support data-informed decision making to improve services.
• Promote strong partnerships with families and community organizations; support strategies that strengthen family engagement and family outcomes.
• The Deputy Director serves in a supporting leadership role under the direction of the Head Start Director and may serve in an acting administrative capacity when formally designated during temporary absence.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required in Early Childhood Education, Social Work, Human Services, Education, Public Administration, Family Services, or related field. Master's Degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Head Start, early childhood education, or human services programs.
• Supervisory and leadership experience is strongly preferred.

Knowledge Required By The Position

• Knowledge of Head Start Act and Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Knowledge of comprehensive services systems.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Ability to supervise and support staff.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze program data and monitor compliance.

Complexity / Scope of Work

• This position operates in both office and program environments and may require travel between program sites.

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of 26 institutions of higher education and the System Office. Our USG Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do. More details on the USG Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at the provided links. USG also supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom, available online at the provided link.

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