Director of Cooperative Preschool

Community Nursery School of Cayuga Heights (CNS) is the longest-standing cooperative preschool in Ithaca, dating back to the 1960s. We are seeking a special someone to lead and grow our already amazing school—an organized, self-motivated, and experienced team leader with strong interpersonal skills, a passion for early childhood education, and the ability to oversee a budget. This person will join a strong community of educators and families.

The Director will be involved in the day-to-day administration of the school and provide ongoing support to classrooms. They will work closely with teachers, children, bookkeeper, and the Board of Directors, including offering hands-on assistance in classrooms as needed. The Director will collaborate with the bookkeeper and treasurer to maintain accurate, shared financial records and will maintain positive, consistent communication with families and our church administration/landlord.

Because CNS is a cooperative preschool, the Director must be comfortable working closely with families and welcoming them into our school community. This role is responsible for all aspects of school operations, including enrollment, finances, and compliance with NYS regulations.

The ideal candidate will have classroom and/or child care experience, administrative experience, and preferably a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing daily operations and school communications
• Supporting classrooms and leading staff
• Overseeing enrollment and maintaining student records
• Collaborating on finances, budgeting, and payroll
• Ensuring licensing and regulatory compliance
• Serving as liaison with the church and broader community

Position Details:

• 20–25 hours per week
• On-site hours: 8:30 AM–1:00 PM, September–June
• Remote hours: July–August
• Compensation based on experience
• Benefits include PTO and Simple IRA match

Please send a resume and cover letter to president@cnsithaca.org

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Application Question(s):

• Can you tell us about any skills or experience you have that might be helpful in this job?

Work Location: In person