School Director (Early Childhood)

Children of America•Fredericksburg, VA

About The Position

Children of America (COA) is seeking an experienced early childhood education leader to oversee the overall success and daily operations of a school serving children from 6 weeks through 12 years of age. The School Director leads and develops educators and support staff, builds strong relationships with families and the community, supports enrollment growth and retention, and maintains high standards for quality care and education. The director partners with senior leadership and regional operations to meet school goals and performance expectations, while implementing COA policies, procedures, and educational programming. The role requires meeting applicable state licensing and regulatory requirements and may include travel of up to 10% for training, professional development, and organizational meetings. Compensation is listed as $60,000–$70,000 annual base salary plus performance-based incentives; final compensation depends on experience, skills, geographic location, and internal equity.

Requirements

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field; a CDA may be considered based on applicable state requirements.
2–4 years of leadership or management experience.
At least 2 years of experience in a licensed childcare facility.
Strong knowledge of early childhood education and applicable state childcare regulations.
Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, coach, and develop a team.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Effective decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to remain flexible and composed in challenging situations.
Commitment to professional development and continuous learning.
Proficiency with technology, including industry-specific applications and Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
Must meet all applicable state licensing and regulatory requirements.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation; must be able and willing to travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

Lead, coach, develop, and retain educators and support staff.
Create a positive, collaborative, and accountable school culture.
Oversee day-to-day school operations and manage staffing, scheduling, and operational priorities.
Ensure compliance with applicable state childcare licensing regulations and maintain health, safety, care, and education standards.
Support enrollment growth and family retention; build relationships with children, families, employees, and the community.
Recruit, interview, onboard, and develop team members; provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance support.
Ensure consistent execution of COA’s curriculum and educational programming; monitor classroom quality and educational standards.
Partner with senior leadership and regional operations to achieve school goals.
Implement COA policies, procedures, and operational processes.
Monitor school performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
Meet established operational, educational, enrollment, and financial performance expectations.
Travel up to 10% for training, professional development, and organizational meetings.

Benefits

$3,000 sign-on bonus (mentioned in the opening; subject to applicable terms not specified).
Performance-based incentives.
100% employee childcare discount.
Internal career advancement opportunities.
Annual longevity bonus.
Quarterly PEEEPs (IOS) bonus.
Educational assistance/reimbursement.
T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Partnerships.
Employee referral bonus.
Employee recognition programs.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k).
Life, accident, and disability insurance.
Paid vacation and paid holidays.
Ongoing professional development and leadership support.