Preschool Early Education Center Director

Position Overview

The Preschool Director is responsible for providing leadership and oversight for the daily operations of the early childhood education program in West Springfield. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality educational experience while maintaining compliance with Massachusetts state regulations and licensing requirements.

The Director oversees staff management, curriculum implementation, family engagement, financial administration, health and safety compliance, facility operations, and community partnerships. The position requires strong leadership skills, experience supporting children with diverse developmental and medical needs, and the ability to foster a positive, inclusive, and nurturing environment for children, families, and staff.

The Director serves as the primary liaison between the preschool, families, community organizations, and regulatory agencies while supporting the overall mission and vision of the program.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Staff Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the preschool.
• Supervise, mentor, and support staff while fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.
• Develop and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate classroom coverage and compliance with staffing requirements.
• Conduct performance evaluations and facilitate professional development opportunities.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and retention of qualified staff.

Educational Oversight and Behavioral Support

• Ensure the effective implementation of a high-quality curriculum that supports children's developmental and educational needs.
• Monitor classroom practices and provide coaching to teaching staff.
• Develop and implement strategies to support children experiencing behavioral challenges.
• Collaborate with educators and families to create positive behavior support plans.
• Promote a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment.

Special Needs, Health, and Safety Management

• Develop and oversee individualized support plans for children with special needs, allergies, and chronic medical conditions.
• Coordinate services with families, healthcare providers, specialists, and local agencies.
• Ensure staff receive appropriate training related to medical needs, allergies, medication administration, and emergency response procedures.
• Maintain and regularly update health and safety policies and procedures.

Compliance and Licensing

• Ensure compliance with all Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) regulations and requirements.
• Maintain all licensing documentation, records, permits, and certifications.
• Prepare for and coordinate state and local inspections.
• Ensure facilities, policies, and operations meet all regulatory standards.

Facility Operations and Maintenance

• Monitor facility maintenance and ensure compliance with safety regulations and building codes.
• Coordinate repairs, improvements, and preventative maintenance.
• Develop and enforce safety procedures to maintain a secure environment for children and staff.

Financial Management

• Oversee billing and tuition processes, including invoicing and collection procedures.
• Monitor tuition accounts and assist families with payment arrangements when needed.
• Track financial transactions and prepare operational reports.
• Support budget management and cost-control efforts.

Purchasing and Inventory Management

• Manage purchasing and inventory of classroom materials, supplies, and equipment.
• Maintain inventory records and ensure resources are available as needed.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with vendors and suppliers.

Grant Writing and Fundraising

• Research grant opportunities and prepare funding proposals.
• Coordinate fundraising initiatives that support program growth and enrichment opportunities.
• Track grant compliance and reporting requirements.

Family Engagement and Community Outreach

• Build and maintain strong relationships with families.
• Address parent concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Organize family engagement events and educational opportunities.
• Connect families with community resources and support services.

Referral and Community Partnership Coordination

• Manage referrals for children requiring additional services or evaluations.
• Establish partnerships with community organizations, service providers, and educational agencies.
• Collaborate with external partners to support children's developmental and educational needs.

State Initiatives and Program Development

• Stay informed of state initiatives and policy updates affecting early childhood education.
• Integrate state-funded programs, resources, and best practices into preschool operations.
• Collaborate with state agencies and local organizations to support program quality and compliance.

Meetings and Professional Representation

• Attend Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) meetings.
• Participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and related planning sessions.
• Represent the preschool at community, regulatory, and professional meetings.

Marketing and Enrollment

• Manage the preschool's social media presence and digital communications.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to support enrollment growth.
• Create engaging content for current and prospective families.
• Support enrollment, tours, and family onboarding processes.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Owner.
• Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling to meet operational and staffing needs.
• Serve as a positive role model and ambassador for the preschool.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Director II Certification or qualifications meeting Massachusetts EEC Director requirements.
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced educational environment.
• Knowledge of inclusive education practices and family-centered approaches.
• Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Education, or a related field (Master's degree preferred or in progress).
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in early childhood education.
• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of Massachusetts EEC regulations and licensing requirements.
• Experience supporting children with special needs, allergies, chronic medical conditions, and behavioral challenges.
• Experience with budgeting, tuition management, grant writing, and fundraising.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with social media, digital communication platforms, and administrative software.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, families, community partners, and regulatory agencies.

Physical and Schedule Requirements

• Ability to move throughout the facility and supervise indoor and outdoor activities.
• Ability to respond appropriately during emergencies.
• Flexible schedule, including occasional evening meetings and special events as needed.

Pay: $62,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $62,000 - $65,000