Preschool Director

Distro•St. Charles, IL

11d•$50,000 - $60,000•Onsite

About The Position

Montessori Kids Universe at St. Charles is an early childhood education center serving children from infancy through kindergarten. Its curriculum combines Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies. The Preschool Director provides strategic and operational leadership for the center, overseeing daily operations, licensing compliance, enrollment growth, staff development, family engagement, and overall school performance. This hands-on leadership role involves launching, managing, and growing a high-quality early childhood program while fostering a positive environment 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.
Proven 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 emergencies; use computers, phones, and office equipment for extended periods; communicate effectively; and use visual and auditory abilities to supervise children and maintain safety.

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 and 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.
Grow enrollment through tours, family engagement, community outreach, and marketing initiatives.
Serve as the primary point of contact for families and school leadership and build relationships with current and prospective families.
Maintain 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.