Director of Preschool

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Preschool to lead and elevate our Montessori School's early childhood education program. This pivotal role involves overseeing the daily operations of the preschool, fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for young learners, and ensuring compliance with educational standards and safety regulations. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for early childhood development, strategic leadership skills, and extensive experience in education administration.

Responsibilities

Educational Leadership

• Serve as the steward of authentic Montessori philosophy and practice across all classrooms
• Ensure classroom environments align with Montessori standards, child development principles, and licensing requirements
• Observe classrooms regularly and provide coaching, feedback, and professional development to guides
• Lead curriculum planning, assessment practices, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Support guides in maintaining prepared environments, classroom flow, and individualized learning plans

Staff Leadership & Culture

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain qualified Montessori guides and support staff
• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and mission-driven school culture
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and mentorship
• Facilitate staff meetings, trainings, and professional development programs
• Address staff concerns promptly and professionally

School Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with state licensing, health and safety regulations, and accreditation standards
• Maintain accurate records related to enrollment, attendance, staffing, and compliance
• Oversee daily school operations, schedules, and staffing coverage
• Coordinate inspections, audits, and regulatory communications
• Implement and refine policies and procedures to support smooth school operations

Family & Community Engagement

• Build strong, trusting relationships with families through clear communication and visibility
• Lead parent education, orientations, and school-wide events
• Address parent questions and concerns with empathy and professionalism
• Represent the school positively within the local community

Enrollment & Growth

• Lead enrollment management, tours, and admissions processes
• Partner with ownership/administration on enrollment targets and growth strategies
• Ensure an excellent family experience from first inquiry through ongoing enrollment
• Monitor retention and proactively address family satisfaction

Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Collaborate with ownership on budgeting, staffing plans, and financial performance
• Manage tuition collection processes in coordination with administration
• Optimize staffing ratios and operational efficiency without compromising quality
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, reduce waste, and scale effectively

Qualifications & Experience

• Montessori credential (AMI, AMS, or equivalent) preferred
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in education, administration, or related field preferred
• Minimum 3–5 years of Montessori teaching and/or leadership experience
• Strong understanding of Montessori philosophy and child development
• Experience with school licensing, compliance, and staff supervision
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills

Personal Attributes

• Calm, confident, and child-centered leadership style
• Strong ethical compass and commitment to Montessori values
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Collaborative, empathetic, and solutions-oriented
• Comfortable balancing educational integrity with operational realities

Work Environment

• On-site leadership role in an active school setting
• Requires regular classroom observation and family interaction
• Some evening or weekend events may be required
• Reports to the Head of the School/Owners

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Nuthatch Montessori School is an equal opportunity employer.

Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person