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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

$82 - $100/hr

Associate Director of Head Start and Early Childhood Services Full Time Hermiston, OR, US 7 days ... Administer high-quality early childhood programs, ensuring effective implementation of Education ...

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Head Start Program Director information

See Kentucky salary details

$25.6K

$67.9K

$119K

How much do head start program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Kentucky is $67,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Head Start Program Director?

A Head Start Program Director is responsible for overseeing the operations of a Head Start program, which provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. The director manages staff, ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, develops program policies, and oversees budgets and grants. Their goal is to ensure that children are prepared for school and that families receive the support they need. This role also involves collaborating with community organizations and engaging with parents to strengthen program outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Start Program Director?

To thrive as a Head Start Program Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program administration, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards, ChildPlus software, and grant management systems is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in managing staff, building community partnerships, and ensuring program quality. These competencies are crucial for delivering high-quality educational services to children and families while maintaining compliance with federal and state requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Head Start Program Directors, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Head Start Program Directors often navigate challenges such as balancing compliance with federal regulations, managing diverse teams, and ensuring high-quality early childhood education for all children served. Candidates should be prepared to implement effective systems for staff supervision, budget management, and community engagement. Developing strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills is essential for addressing these challenges and fostering a positive, supportive environment for both staff and families.

What is the difference between Head Start Program Director vs Head Start Center Supervisor?

AspectHead Start Program DirectorHead Start Center Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field; experience in program managementHigh school diploma or associate's degree; experience in early childhood education or supervision
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple centers or programs, administrative settingManages daily operations of a single center, direct supervision of staff
ResponsibilitiesProgram planning, compliance, staff management, community relationsStaff supervision, classroom quality, parent engagement, daily operations

The Head Start Program Director typically oversees multiple centers and handles administrative and strategic responsibilities, requiring higher credentials. In contrast, the Head Start Center Supervisor manages daily operations at a single center, focusing on staff and classroom quality. Both roles are vital but differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What are popular job titles related to Head Start Program Director jobs in Kentucky?

For Head Start Program Director jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Head Start Program Director jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Head Start Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Start Program Director job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,915 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Head Start Substitute

Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc.

Elizabethtown, KY โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

JOB PURPOSE:  The Head Start Instructional Assistant Substitute is responsible for implementing instructional experiences, under the direction of the Head Start Teacher, for preschool children for adequate development in the social, emotional, physical, and educational processes. This position is on an AS NEEDED basis, in the absence of a Head Start Teacher/Instructional Assistant.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
  • Possesses knowledge and understanding of early childhood development.
  • Assists to ensure every child is engaged in and challenged by a variety of learning experiences.
  • Completes required annual training and professional development hours.
  • Promotes the development of and ensure that English Language Learners make significant progress in their primary language and English.
  • Assists in incorporating each child’s interests into planning classroom activities.
  • Assists in maintaining a safe and healthy environment which supports the development and learning of preschool children while maintaining teacher-child ratios in compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards.
  • Assists the Teacher in the assessment of children.
  • Assists Teacher with the timely and accurate completion and maintenance of documentation and recordkeeping.
  • Promotes staff relationships which allow a climate conducive to learning.
  • Other duties as assigned.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience working in a team environment.
  • Experience working with children.
  • Reliable transportation is required.
  • Works well with individuals of all cultures and socio-economic backgrounds.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and oral.
  • Background check/pre-employment screenings required.

SCHEDULE:
  • 8-hour shift, Monday-Friday, AS NEEDED.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent (required).

Central Kentucky Community Action Council Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

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