Preschool Director

Lawrence Montessori School•Lawrence, KS

4d•$59,481 - $75,000

About The Position

Cadence Education is seeking a Preschool Director to lead a childcare team and oversee a preschool in Lawrence, Kansas. The director is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing environment; delivering a high-quality curriculum that exceeds applicable standards; building strong relationships with families, staff, children, and community partners; and supporting the school’s educational, operational, enrollment, and financial goals. The role leads and develops a team of 20–40 educators, including recruiting, training, appraising, and helping staff grow. It also involves managing budgets, supporting enrollment and marketing efforts, and ensuring compliance with licensing, safety, sanitation, and other applicable regulations. The position requires proven leadership at an early childhood facility with multiple classrooms and programs, and meeting state licensing standards for directors. Candidates must satisfy one of the specified education and experience pathways: a bachelor’s degree, one or more years in a supervisory role, and at least six months in group childcare; a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, one or more years in a supervisory role, and at least two years in group childcare; or an associate’s degree (or equivalent), one or more years in a supervisory role, and at least two years in group childcare. Additional requirements include being at least 21 years old, having a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record, and being able to travel and work nights or weekends as needed. The stated annual salary range is $59,481–$75,000. Benefits listed for full-time employees include a 100% childcare tuition discount, 401(k) with employer match, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and pet insurance, paid time off that increases with seniority, paid holidays, company-paid life insurance, paid CDA, tuition reimbursement, and professional development. The posting also mentions on-demand pay through UKG Wallet and a supportive culture focused on work-life balance.

Requirements

Proven leadership experience at an early childhood facility with multiple classrooms and programs.
Meet state licensing standards for a director, including criminal background screening and fingerprinting.
Meet one of the listed education and experience pathways: (1) bachelor’s degree, at least one year in a supervisory role, and at least six months in group childcare; (2) Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, at least one year in a supervisory role, and at least two years in group childcare; or (3) associate’s degree or equivalent, at least one year in a supervisory role, and at least two years in group childcare.
Knowledge of national and state education standards and licensing, fire, health, and OSHA regulations.
Knowledge of USDA Nutritional Standards for Schools.
Be at least 21 years old.
Have a valid driver’s license and a driving record that meets company standards.
Ability to travel and work nights and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

Champion a safe, joyful, and nurturing preschool environment that supports children’s growth, curiosity, achievement, and well-being.
Deliver the school’s curriculum and ensure programs meet or exceed national and state standards.
Build strong, open relationships with parents, staff, children, vendors, community partners, and families.
Lead a team of 20–40 educators and support their development through training, appraisals, goal-setting, and growth plans.
Recruit and hire qualified staff.
Meet enrollment and financial goals, manage budgets, and balance profitability with quality care.
Participate in marketing events and community outreach to promote the school.
Ensure compliance with licensing, safety, sanitation, fire, health, OSHA, federal, and state requirements.
Maintain a safe, organized school environment and support the school’s operational success.