Education Administrators, Preschool and Childcare Center

Education Administrators of Preschool and Childcare Centers plan, direct, or coordinate academic or nonacademic activities, including before- and after-school care.

Education administrators need to have logic and problem-solving skills, have good listening and communication skills as well as the ability to understand problems and find viable solutions. They are also expected to be both independent and highly dependable.

They confer with parents and staff to discuss educational activities and policies and students' behavioral or learning problems. They monitor students' progress and provide students and teachers with assistance in resolving any problems. They also recruit, hire, train, and evaluate primary and supplemental staff and recommend personnel actions for programs and services.

In addition, education administrators may teach classes or courses or provide direct care to children. They also set educational standards and goals and help establish policies, procedures, and programs to carry them out.

An associate's or bachelor's degree is generally required for this position, and prior working experience in pre-schools or child care centers may also be required. Because these administrators work with children, most states require them to have state and local clearances, as well as First Aid Certification.