Preschool Assistant Director

Full-time - Mid Level

Encinitas, CA

About the position

Saint John School Preschool is seeking an experienced Assistant Director to support the Director in overseeing daily operations at the preschool, ensuring a high-quality learning environment that aligns with the school's mission. This role combines administrative leadership, staff management, curriculum support, and hands-on engagement with students, parents, and faculty. The Assistant Director assumes full leadership responsibilities in the Director’s absence.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and maintain accurate student records.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure a safe, nurturing, and educational environment.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to early childhood education.
• Manage enrollment and admissions processes, including maintaining waitlists and enrollment forms.
• Assist the Director with class lists.
• Create and distribute sign-in/out forms for Preschool 1 - Preschool 4 (P1-P4).
• Create and laminate classroom ratio lists for teachers.
• Support classroom operations: provide 10-minute teacher breaks and substitute when teachers are absent.
• Maintain incident/ouch reports: Make copies, send originals home, and file records properly.
• Assist with preschool and Pre-K assessments in October and April (including Kindergarten readiness assessments).
• Maintain consistent attendance and professionalism, including arriving 30 minutes before school begins and staying 30 minutes after dismissal.
• Assist in hiring, training, and supervising preschool teachers.
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and coordinate professional development opportunities.
• Address staff concerns, conflicts, and disciplinary issues professionally and confidentially.
• Oversee the development and implementation of an age-appropriate, standards-aligned curriculum.
• Monitor and evaluate teaching strategies to ensure effectiveness.
• Provide teaching support and resources for staff.
• Demonstrate expertise in curriculum by engaging in classroom instruction when needed.
• Organize instruction to maximize student learning and engagement.
• Implement differentiated instruction to meet individual student needs.
• Regularly review and update curriculum and instructional methods for continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with teachers to enhance instructional planning and professional development.
• Uphold and promote the Catholic mission of the school by incorporating faith-based education and values.
• Participate in religious retreats, school Masses, and faith-based activities.
• Foster strong relationships with parents and families, providing regular communication about student progress.
• Organize Parent-Teacher Conferences: Create sign-ups on School Speak, distribute forms, and ensure final drafts are prepared.
• Address academic and behavioral concerns by setting up meetings with families.
• Distribute teacher notes to parents at pick-up (e.g., ouch reports, meal/sleep updates).
• Respond promptly to parent inquiries and conference requests.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment for children and staff.
• Conduct and oversee emergency drills, safety protocols, and health guidelines.
• Monitor children's health and well-being, ensuring appropriate care for illnesses and behavioral issues.
• Handle student health concerns: Check temperatures, notify parents, and supervise students awaiting pickup.
• Notify families if two or more cases of contagious illnesses (e.g., pink eye, COVID-19, lice) occur.

Requirements

• Active, practicing Roman Catholic (preferred)
• Respects and understands a Catholic school philosophy
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in early childhood education, with 1-2 years in a leadership role.
• CPR/First Aid Certification
• Negative TB test
• Clear background checks
• Coursework in School Administration (preferred)
• Obtain the Diocese of San Diego Basic Catechist Certificate and complete necessary requirements to renew the certification every 3 years.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong leadership and communication skills to effectively guide staff and interact with families.
• Thorough knowledge of child development and best practices in early childhood education.
• Excellent organization and time management skills to handle multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to problem-solve and take initiative in the best interest of the school.
• Flexibility and adaptability to manage unexpected challenges.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to take direction and work as part of a team.