Preschool Director

City of Sparks•City of Sparks, NV

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Sparks is seeking to hire one Preschool Director to report to a Recreation Manager within the Youth Programs Division of the Parks & Recreation Department. This role is responsible for executing and handling the full range of preschool program operations across multiple classrooms at different physical locations, requiring travel between sites. The selected candidate must be adept at handling difficult conversations with staff, parents, and program participants. The anticipated work schedule supports Monday through Friday operations with flexibility based on staffing needs. This posting closes on September 15, 2026, at 4:00 pm PST. The City of Sparks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of hire.
Associate’s degree in early childhood education and 1,000 hours (6 months) of verifiable work experience in a childcare facility.
Associate's degree in a related field and fifteen (15) completed semester hours in early childhood education and 2,000 hours (12 months) of verifiable work experience in a childcare facility.
High School Diploma or equivalent (if approved by the Administrator of the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health), fifteen (15) completed semester hours in early childhood education or related courses and 3,000 hours (18 months) of verifiable work experience in a childcare facility.
Must possess within thirty (30) days of hire and maintain throughout employment, the equivalent to a valid Nevada Class C driver’s license.
Must possess within ninety (90) days of hire and maintain throughout employment, a valid CPR/AED and First Aid Certificate from a recognized institution.
Ability to manage administrative duties and multi-site operations effectively.
Knowledge of early childhood education principles.
Knowledge of basic first aid and CPR methods and techniques.
Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
Knowledge of proper use and maintenance of facilities and equipment.
Knowledge of and ability to use computer applications and software related to the work, including but not limited to, Microsoft Office.
Knowledge of and ability to read, write, use basic math and verbal communication skills.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted during work.
Ability to exercise good judgment and initiative within general policy guidelines, independently and in the best interest of the program, program participants, and the City.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with children and their parents regarding issues or concern.
Ability to summon emergency assistance and respond to or initiate contact with parents and licensing authority.
Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to exercise patience and care when dealing with young children.
Ability to lead, coach, and train others in work procedures.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual pay (when applicable)

Responsibilities

Coordinate and support execution of operations within multiple preschool classrooms.
Ensure consistent program quality, safety, and compliance with all state licensing requirements and City of Sparks standards.
Ensure all employees conduct themselves in alignment with program standards.
Serve as the primary point of contact for licensing authorities.
Prepare and respond to audits and/or investigations.
Organize, lead, and support the enrollment process, including tours, registrations, and waitlists.
Screen new candidates, supervise and schedule staff.
Support children in activities that promote social, physical, and intellectual growth in a safe, structured environment that prepares them for primary school.
Provide a fun, safe, recreational, and social environment suitable for children of all ages and groups.
Provide a variety of materials and resources for children to explore, manipulate, and use, both in learning activities and in imaginative play.
Supervise children at all times during indoor and outdoor play.
Assist children with personal needs when necessary.
Build and maintain positive relationships with children, parents, guardians, and families.
Address concerns from parents.
Ensure a safe and healthy environment for children, staff, and visitors.
Develop and enforce safety procedures, administer first aid as required, and conduct regular safety drills and training.
Coordinate with Assistant Preschool Directors to plan, organize, and lead structured curriculum of activities designed to promote physical, mental, and social development.
Perform the general set-up and clean-up for daily activities.
Establish and enforce rules for behavior, procedures for maintaining order, and promote positive social behavior, while following best practices for children and the appropriate developmental levels.
Create opportunities for all children to be successful through behavior modification plans and best practices appropriate for the assigned age group.
Praise and encourage children and provide them with a variety of learning and social experiences.
Prepare staff schedules and weekly program activity schedules to comply with mandated ratios and program adherence to state guidelines and industry best practices.
Provide in-classroom coverage when necessary.
Recruit, supervise, coach, and evaluate a diverse group of part-time and temporary employees.
Provide ongoing leadership, mentoring, and professional development to part-time temporary employees.
Maintain accurate records including but not limited to, enrollment, attendance, medical, and all other records.
Maintain organized separate personnel records for each member of staff to include volunteers, substitutes, and part-time employees as required by the State of Nevada for licensing purposes.
Complete written accident reports, incident reports, and attendance reports, and address findings with appropriate staff and parents as needed.
Communicate with parents regarding concerns, updates, or program information.
Establish and maintain positive relationships with families, staff, and community members.
Draft and recommend policies and procedures to implement in accordance with State requirements.
Purchase supplies, equipment, and materials, maintaining cost-effective program operations.
Track expenditure to remain within approved budget limits.
Perform related duties and responsibilities as required and other duties which may be assigned.