Early Childhood Center Director - Denver

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Preschool Program Director to lead our early childhood school community. This role is ideal for a relationship-driven leader who values connection, communication, and collaboration as the foundation for a thriving school.

As Program Director, you will guide not only the school's daily operations but also the experiences of the families and educators who make up our community. You’ll play a key role in building trust, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating an environment where children, families, and staff feel supported, valued, and inspired.

You bring:

• Proven track record of success in ECE enrollment and family conversion, confidently guiding families from first inquiry through enrollment and a smooth, welcoming first day

• A warm, welcoming presence and genuine passion for working with children, families, and educators

• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills

• Experience in recruiting, developing, and retaining high-quality early childhood staff

• Confidence using digital systems for enrollment, staffing, and documentation

• High emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and a commitment to personal and professional growth

• A reflective and collaborative leadership style, with the ability to give and receive constructive feedback

• A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with a positive, team-first approach

• Flexibility to occasionally work evenings or weekends for community events

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Director of a large childcare center (Colorado)

• Must meet all Colorado state licensing requirements and hold an active Director’s certificate

Preferred:

• Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

What We Value

Our school is grounded in connection, curiosity, and joy. We are looking for a leader who aligns with our shared values:

• A love of nature and time spent outdoors

• A commitment to play-based, child-led learning

• Knowledge of inquiry-based education and approaches such as Conscious Discipline

• Creativity and a willingness to share personal talents and passions with children and staff

Key Responsibilities

• Build strong, trusting relationships with prospective and enrolled families

• Lead enrollment efforts, demonstrating a proven track record of success in ECE enrollment and family conversion, guiding families confidently from initial inquiry to enrollment and a positive first day

• Maintain consistent, thoughtful communication with families throughout their journey with the school

• Foster a welcoming, inclusive community through events, conferences, and ongoing engagement

• Oversee daily school operations, ensuring a safe, organized, and high-quality environment

• Maintain compliance with all state licensing, health, and safety regulations

• Manage enrollment systems and ensure accurate record-keeping for students and families

• Oversee budgets, supplies, and overall facility operations

• Recruit, hire, train, and mentor teaching and support staff

• Foster a positive, collaborative team culture aligned with the school’s mission

• Support staff through coaching, goal-setting, and performance evaluations

• Lead staff meetings, professional development, and team communication

• Support and oversee implementation of play-based, inquiry-driven curriculum

• Observe classrooms and guide teachers in strengthening instructional practices and student interactions

• Ensure ongoing program quality, consistency, and continuous improvement

• Coordinate school events such as open houses, conferences, and celebrations

• Maintain all required licensing and compliance documentation

• Step into classrooms as needed to support staff and ensure continuity of care

Why Apply?

We are a forward-thinking, relationship-centered school community that believes meaningful connections are the foundation for everything we do. This is an opportunity to lead with purpose, build lasting relationships, and make a meaningful impact on children, families, and educators.

If you’re a thoughtful leader who values connection, communication, and community—and believes in the power of play—we’d love to hear from you.