Preschool Director

Are you a kind, warm, and enthusiastic early childhood educator? We are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to serve as the Director for our Gan Mah Tov (lit. “Really Good Preschool”) Infant/Toddler and Preschool programs, which serves children up to 5 years of age. The Director, who reports to the Beth Jacob Congregation Board President, will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience of young children within a nurturing Jewish environment. 

The ideal candidate will be passionate about early childhood education and bring a deep understanding of Jewish values, traditions, and culture, along with strong leadership skills to inspire a team of educators and create a vibrant learning community.

Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Management:
   • Provide visionary leadership to the preschool staff and create a positive and collaborative work environment.
   • Oversee day-to-day operations of the preschool, including staffing, scheduling, and budget management.
   • Create a warm and inviting preschool environment, reflected not only on the walls of the hallways and classrooms, but embedded throughout the Gan.
   • Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with licensing regulations and best practices in early childhood education.
2. Curriculum Development:
   • Collaborate with teachers to design and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that promotes the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children.
   • Develop and implement a curriculum that fosters a love of Jewish learning and Israel, integrating Jewish values, holidays, and traditions alongside Hebrew language into daily activities and learning experiences.
   • Provide guidance and support to teachers in creating both engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons that reflect the richness of Jewish heritage.
   • Partner with classroom teachers to infuse Jewish curriculum into the broader curriculum and provide support on cultural practices.
   • Stay abreast of current research and best practices in early childhood education to continuously improve the curriculum and educational program.
3. Enrollment Management:
   • Manage the enrollment process from inquiry to enrollment, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for families.
   • Conduct tours and informational sessions for prospective families to foster a welcoming environment, showcase the Gan, and answer questions.
   • Coordinate enrollment forms and registration fees in compliance with regulatory requirements.
   • Maintain accurate records of enrollment data, including inquiries, applications, admissions, and retention rates.
   • Provide ongoing enrollment information and recommendations to the Board.
4. Parent and Community Engagement:
   • Cultivate strong relationships with parents through effective communication, regular updates, and opportunities for involvement in their child's education.
   • Build strong relationships with parents, synagogue members, and the broader Jewish community to promote collaboration and support for the preschool program.
   • Organize and facilitate Gan family-oriented Jewish programming and events to encourage connections and celebrate Jewish culture and traditions.
   • Represent the preschool in the local community and establish partnerships with other organizations and resources to support the needs of children and families.
5. Staff Development and Training:
   • Recruit, train, and mentor a team of educators who are passionate about Jewish education and committed to providing high-quality care and instruction.
   • Provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities for preschool staff to enhance their skills and knowledge in early childhood education.
   • Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to ensure the highest quality of teaching and care.
6. Child Welfare and Safety:
   • Ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all children and staff in accordance with Jewish values and best practices in early childhood education.
   • Maintain a safe and clean environment that meets or exceeds licensing standards and health regulations.
   • Serve as a floater teacher in the classroom, as needed, to provide teacher breaks or substitute when teachers are out.

Qualifications:

• Qualified per California Title 22.
• Knowledge of state licensing regulations for infant/toddler and preschool programs. 
• Knowledge of Jewish traditions, rituals, and holiday observances, with a commitment to incorporating them into the curricula.
• Previous experience in a leadership role in a preschool or early childhood education setting.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to inspire and motivate a team of educators and build positive relationships with families and community members.
• Passion for working with young children and their families, and a commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education.

Benefits:

• $85,000 - $105,000
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options 
• Retirement plan and flexible spending account
• 10 days of paid time off, in addition to paid spring break, winter break, Jewish holidays, and federal holidays
• Meaningful work in a supportive and collaborative environment dedicated to the well-being and development of young children that celebrates Jewish identity and values.
• Connection to a vibrant Jewish community and resources for personal and spiritual enrichment.

Are you ready to come work with us?

• Start date: July 2024
• Preschool hours: 8:30am – 5pm Monday through Thursday and 8:30am – 4pm on Fridays
• Our vibrant, nonprofit preschool of 30 children is located in Beth Jacob Congregation, a Modern Orthodox synagogue in the beautiful Trestle Glen/Park Blvd neighborhood of Oakland.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references to Brian Fox (execdir@bethjacoboakland.org) with subject line “Application for Gan Director.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.