Preschool Director

First Steps Academy•Mclean, VA

4h•$75,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

Do you believe childhood should be filled with joy, wonder, safety, and meaningful connections? Are you a passionate early childhood leader who thrives on building strong relationships with children, families, and educators? If so, we invite you to join our team as our Preschool Director. In this leadership role, you will create an environment where children feel loved, valued, and excited to learn every day. You will lead a dedicated team of educators, foster strong family partnerships, champion positive behavior guidance, and ensure that every child experiences a safe, nurturing, and engaging preschool journey. Growing student enrollment and building a skilled, motivated teaching team are central to this role. As the primary point of contact for current and prospective families, you will lead enrollment efforts through engaging tours, timely follow-up, thoughtful student placement, and strong family relationships that encourage continued enrollment and referrals. You will monitor enrollment trends and classroom availability, identify opportunities for growth, and work toward enrollment goals while maintaining a high-quality preschool experience. You will also make staff training, professional development, and morale a priority. Through clear expectations, ongoing coaching, meaningful recognition, and open communication, you will help educators feel prepared, appreciated, and supported. This position oversees staffing, curriculum implementation, regulatory compliance, and overall preschool operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development or a related field (preferred).
5+ years of experience in preschool programs, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
3-5 years of hands-on teaching experience (preferred).
Strong knowledge of child development (newborn through 5 years).
Familiarity with Virginia Department of Education licensing standards.
Excellent communication skills
Physical ability to actively engage with children, including sitting, standing, and playing.
CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Medical Administration Training certification (or willingness to obtain)
Must pass all required pre-employment screenings and training.

Responsibilities

Lead student recruitment, enrollment, and retention efforts, monitoring progress toward enrollment goals and identifying opportunities to grow the school community.
Guide prospective families from initial inquiry through tours, application, and enrollment with warm communication and timely follow-up.
Monitor classroom availability, coordinate student placement, and support smooth transitions for children and families.
Recruit, hire, train, and support an amazing team of preschool teachers and assistants.
Oversee the academic program, ensuring high-quality classroom interactions and program implementation through regular classroom observations and coaching.
Step in as a classroom teacher when needed to maintain continuity of instruction.
Manage staff scheduling and ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
Build strong relationships with families and serve as the primary contact for parent communication.
Maintain compliance with Virginia Department of Education licensing standards.
Create a fun, safe, and nurturing space where children can learn and grow!