Job Description
Job Description
Area Director – Before & After School Programs
Washington, DC
Salary: $70,000 – $80,000 annually | Biweekly Pay
About Leading Edge
Leading Edge is a leading provider of extended day learning programs serving elementary and middle school students across the country. Our mission is to support and nurture the whole child to help our students learn and grow.
Through our six core enrichment labs-Challenge Lab, Art Enrichment Lab, Homework Lab, Physical Lab, Reading Lab, and STEM Lab-we extend the school day with engaging, hands-on experiences that support academic growth, social-emotional development, and overall well-being. Our programs are led by passionate educators in safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments.
Position Overview
We are seeking a confident, mission-driven leader to serve as an Area Director for our Washington, DC region. This role is responsible for overseeing multiple school-based programs, leading and developing high-performing teams, ensuring operational excellence, and building strong partnerships with school communities.
This is a hybrid role with a strong in-person presence required across school sites.
Key Responsibilities
• Supervise, coach, and support Site Directors and program staff across multiple locations
• Lead recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and ongoing staff development
• Build and maintain strong relationships with school and district partners
• Ensure compliance with all DC licensing, health, and safety regulations
• Oversee staffing, scheduling, and program operations to ensure quality and consistency
• Manage program budgets and support regional financial goals
• Provide hands-on leadership to ensure a positive staff and student experience
Qualifications
• Minimum of 2 years of leadership or management experience in childcare or education required
• Bachelor's degree required
• Experience with Washington, DC childcare licensing and program operations preferred
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and web-based systems
• Reliable transportation for travel between sites
• Reliable internet for remote administrative work as needed
Benefits
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (eligible after 30 days)
• 401(k) with 3% automatic enrollment after 3 months
• Paid holidays, flexible vacation time, and 56 hours of sick leave
• Calm Premium subscription (including eligible dependents)
• Aflac supplemental insurance options
• Employee discounts on Leading Edge programs
Hiring Process & Timeline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected candidates will be invited to an initial screening.
The interview process will include three stages:
• First Round: Virtual interview with the Regional Director (week of April 13)
• Second Round: Virtual panel interview with Regional and Operations leadership
• Final Round: In-person interview
Final decisions are anticipated during the first week of May, with an expected start date in the second week of May.
Apply Today!
Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we encourage candidates to submit a thorough and complete application. While we carefully review each submission, only candidates selected to move forward will be contacted.
If you are passionate about leading teams, building strong school partnerships, and making a meaningful impact in out-of-school-time programming, we encourage you to apply.
Leading Edge is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all required background checks in accordance with Washington, DC childcare licensing regulations.