About Us

About Us -

Director Success Academy

At Director Success Academy (which began as Texas Director), we are dedicated to empowering early childhood professionals with comprehensive training, expert coaching, and unwavering support. Since 2002, we have been the trusted leader in director credentialing, guiding over 2,500 directors to success in the childcare industry.

Our Story

Founded by Carrie Casey and Kate Woodward Young, M.Ed., Director Success Academy was born out of a shared passion for accessible, high-quality leadership training in early childhood education. With a combined 60 years of experience, Kate and Carrie recognized the need for flexible, practical training that fits the busy lives of childcare professionals. In 2005, they pioneered the first online Director Credential program, breaking barriers to make quality training more accessible nationwide.

Our Story

Founded by Carrie Casey and Kate Woodward Young, M.Ed., Director Success Academy was born out of a shared passion for accessible, high-quality leadership training in early childhood education. With a combined 60 years of experience, Kate and Carrie recognized the need for flexible, practical training that fits the busy lives of childcare professionals. In 2005, they pioneered the first online Director Credential program, breaking barriers to make quality training more accessible nationwide.

Our Mission

We believe that strong leadership creates thriving learning environments. Our mission is to equip directors with the skills, confidence, and resources to lead successful childcare programs while making a lasting impact on the children and families they serve.

Expanding Our Reach

Recognizing the evolving needs of early childhood professionals, we’ve expanded beyond Texas to offer:

✔ Oklahoma Director – Programs designed to meet Oklahoma’s childcare regulations.

✔ Licensing Partnerships – Established in New Mexico and Minnesota, with upcoming expansions in Florida and Louisiana.

Our Programs

We offer a range of training and credentialing programs to support early childhood leaders at every stage of their careers:

Self-Paced Course

Flexible learning for busy professionals.

Instructor-Led Course

Live online classes with expert instructors and peer support.

Executive Leadership Credential

Advanced training for experienced directors seeking Texas Health & Human Services non-renewing credentials.

Annual Renewal Membership

40 clock hours of training to fulfill renewal requirements effortlessly.

Coaching Programs

Specialized training for aspiring authors and early childhood trainers.

Each course integrates our best-selling book, From Overwhelmed to I Got This, available in multiple formats and languages.

Why Choose Director Success Academy?

Pioneers in Online Training – First weekend and online Director Credential programs in the U.S.
Proven Success – Over 70% of our graduates stay in early childhood education for more than three years.
Comprehensive Learning Resources – Courses enriched with videos, podcasts, and expert insights.
National Impact – Over 6,000 directors trained in leadership, HR, marketing, and finance.

Why Choose Director Success Academy?

Pioneers in Online Training – First weekend and online Director Credential programs in the U.S.
Proven Success – Over 70% of our graduates stay in early childhood education for more than three years.
Comprehensive Learning Resources – Courses enriched with videos, podcasts, and expert insights.
National Impact – Over 6,000 directors trained in leadership, HR, marketing, and finance.