Preschool Director / Prekindergarten Teacher

Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix

Saint Jerome Catholic School

Preschool Director / Prekindergarten Teacher

POSITION TITLE:    Preschool Director / Prekindergarten Teacher

Department:              Catholic Schools

Grade:              Preschool / Prekindergarten

Supervisor:         Principal

Also Reports To: Pastor and/or Diocesan School Superintendent

Supervises: All preschool staff, including teachers, aides, and support personnel

Position Summary:

Under supervision of the Principal, Pastor and Diocesan School Superintendent, the Preschool Director is the spiritual, educational, and operational leader of the preschool. The Director is responsible for creating and maintaining a vibrant, safe, and nurturing Catholic early childhood environment that aligns with the teachings of the Church and the educational standards of the Diocese. The Director ensures the holistic development of each child, fosters a collaborative and professional team, builds strong parish and community relationships, and oversees all aspects of preschool administration and compliance.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Assumes Responsibility for Educational and Administrative Leadership:

• Oversees curriculum, ensuring it is comprehensive and mission-focused.
• Manages all daily operations, including scheduling, record-keeping, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Acts as a positive role model in routine and unexpected situations.

2. Develops and Maintains an Appropriate Learning, Social, and Safe Environment:

• Ensures the physical environment is conducive to learning and social interaction.
• Maintains full compliance with all Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS) Child Care Licensing regulations and diocesan policies.

3. Evaluates Student Needs and Well-being:

• Oversees the process for observing and assessing individual student development and needs.
• Collaborates with teachers and parents to support children with diverse learning needs.
• Acts as the primary point of contact for referrals and consultations regarding suspected learning challenges.
• Establishes systems for evaluating and reporting student progress.

4. Oversees Family Communication:

• Serves as the primary liaison between the preschool and families, maintaining regular, transparent, and positive communication.
• Organizes and leads parent orientations, conferences, and community-building events.
• Addresses parent concerns with compassion and professionalism.

5. Establishes and Nurtures Positive School and Community Relationships:

• Maintains cooperative and supportive relationships with the Pastor, parish staff, and parish community.
• Actively promotes the preschool within the parish and the wider community.
• Represents the preschool at diocesan and local early childhood education meetings and events.

6. Ensures Continuous Professional and Program Development:

• Maintains current knowledge of best practices in early childhood education, Arizona DHS licensing, and diocesan policies.
• Pursues ongoing professional development in educational leadership and Catholic catechesis.
• Evaluates and enhances preschool programs, policies, and procedures annually.

7. Performs any other job-related tasks deemed necessary and/or assigned by the Pastor or Diocesan Superintendent.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required to Perform Essential Job Functions:

• Must meet or be willing to complete Ministry Formation Certification as required by Diocesan Policy.
• If Catholic, willing to make a public Profession of Faith.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Arizona DHS Child Care Licensing Regulations and ability to ensure full compliance.
• Strong organizational, financial, and administrative abilities.

Standard Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Educational Leadership, or a closely related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• A minimum of three years of experience in early childhood education, including at least two years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Current Arizona Director Credential or ability to obtain one within a specified timeframe.
• Preference given to practicing Catholics in good standing with the Church.
• Must have participated in (or will participate immediately upon hire) Safe Environment Training and sign the Diocesan Code of Ethics.
• Must pass required background checks and FBI Fingerprint Clearance.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• The role involves both office work and active engagement in preschool classrooms and events. The Director must be able to move freely throughout the facility, interact with young children at their level, and respond quickly to emergencies.