Preschool Director
About The Position
Montessori Kids Universe (MKU) at St. Charles is an early childhood education center serving children from infancy through kindergarten. Its curriculum combines Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies in a nurturing learning environment. The Preschool Director provides strategic and operational leadership, overseeing daily operations, licensing compliance, enrollment growth, staff development, family engagement, and overall school performance. This hands-on role involves launching, managing, and growing a high-quality early childhood program while fostering a positive culture for children, families, and staff.
Requirements
- Meet Illinois DCFS Director qualifications.
- At least 5 years of experience in Early Childhood Education.
- Previous leadership experience in a preschool, daycare, childcare center, or early learning program.
- Strong knowledge of childcare licensing requirements, regulatory compliance, and center operations.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management abilities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and childcare management software.
- Ability to pass all required background checks and screenings.
- Ability to move throughout the facility, including classrooms, offices, and outdoor play areas; stand, walk, bend, kneel, and sit for extended periods; occasionally lift and carry up to 40 pounds; participate in school events, classroom activities, and emergency situations; use computers, phones, and office equipment for extended periods; communicate effectively; and use visual and auditory abilities to supervise children and maintain a safe environment.
Nice To Haves
- Montessori experience and/or Montessori certification.
- Experience opening or launching a new preschool or childcare center.
- Enrollment management, admissions, and family retention experience.
- Marketing and community outreach experience.
- Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Experience managing budgets and financial performance.
- Strong community engagement and relationship-building background.
Responsibilities
- Oversee daily school operations to maintain a safe, organized, high-quality learning environment.
- Ensure compliance with Illinois DCFS licensing standards, regulations, and center policies.
- Recruit, hire, onboard, train, coach, evaluate, and retain teachers and staff.
- Drive enrollment growth through tours, family engagement, community outreach, and marketing initiatives.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for families and school leadership, building relationships with current and prospective families.
- Maintain high educational standards and support curriculum implementation aligned with Montessori and Reggio Emilia principles.
- Develop staff through coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
- Manage scheduling, staffing, budgeting, recordkeeping, and administrative functions.
- Monitor center performance, enrollment goals, and operational metrics.
- Establish partnerships with community organizations and represent the center at local networking events.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and inclusive school culture.
Benefits
- Paid holidays.
- 401(k) program available.
- Potential PTO based on experience and tenure.
- Professional development and growth opportunities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
