Preschool Director — Job Description

Position Summary

The Preschool Director is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, educational quality, and daily operations of the preschool program. This role oversees staff, curriculum implementation, student safety, family relationships, regulatory compliance, enrollment, and the continued growth and success of the program.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership

• Provide vision, leadership, and day-to-day oversight of the preschool program.
• Develop and maintain a high-quality, developmentally appropriate educational environment.
• Ensure the program meets or exceeds state licensing requirements and applicable accreditation standards.
• Establish and enforce policies and procedures related to student care, safety, discipline, and operations.
• Monitor classroom quality and ensure curriculum standards are consistently implemented.

Staff Management

• Recruit, interview, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate teachers and support staff.
• Develop staff schedules and maintain appropriate classroom staffing ratios.
• Provide ongoing professional development, coaching, and performance feedback.
• Address employee performance and conduct issues promptly and professionally.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional staff culture.

Student & Family Relations

• Maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student development, concerns, and program activities.
• Address parent concerns and resolve issues professionally.
• Build strong relationships with families and the surrounding community.
• Support enrollment, retention, tours, and admissions activities.

Administration & Compliance

• Maintain accurate student, staff, attendance, licensing, and health records.
• Ensure compliance with state childcare regulations, health and safety requirements, and organizational policies.
• Oversee emergency preparedness, incident reporting, and child-safety procedures.
• Manage program budgets, supplies, and operational expenses.
• Assist with enrollment projections and program growth initiatives.

Educational Leadership

• Observe classrooms and provide feedback to teachers.
• Support developmentally appropriate lesson planning and instructional practices.
• Monitor student progress and ensure appropriate developmental support.
• Promote a positive learning environment focused on children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field preferred.
• Director-level experience in a preschool, childcare center, early learning program, or educational setting.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development and best practices.
• Knowledge of applicable state childcare licensing requirements.
• Demonstrated experience supervising and developing staff.
• Excellent communication, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification, as required.

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years of experience in early childhood education or childcare.
• 2+ years of supervisory or administrative experience.
• Experience with staff recruitment, enrollment, budgeting, and program operations.
• Experience working with families and community partners.
• Familiarity with childcare management and enrollment software.

Compensation

Competitive salary based on experience, qualifications, and scope of responsibility. Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, professional development, and other benefits offered by the organization.

Equal Opportunity

The organization is committed to providing an inclusive workplace and considers qualified candidates without regard to legally protected characteristics.