Preschool Director/Teacher

Director of Early Childhood Education and Ministry Trinity Lutheran School, Traverse City, Michigan

The Director of Early Childhood Education and Ministry is a full-time, exempt, leadership position at Trinity Lutheran School. This role is responsible for establishing the Christian vision, ensuring administrative excellence, and overseeing the educational quality of the school’s Christian Early Childhood programs (Preschool and/or Childcare Center). The Director actively administers all operations, manages and coaches staff, teaches as necessary, and serves as the primary liaison between the program, parents, church leadership, and the wider Traverse City community.

Accountability: The Director is directly accountable to the Principal and the Board of Education of Trinity Lutheran School.

I. Qualifications and Requirements

A. Spiritual and Foundational

• Must be an active member of a Christian church, preferably the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), and implement the doctrine, teaching, and practices of the LCMS.
• Must commit to modeling the Christian faith and a godly life through word and example.
• A clear sense of call and a passion for ministry grounded in an understanding of Lutheran theology is essential.
• Synodical training and a Lutheran Teaching Diploma are highly preferred.

B. Educational and Professional

• Required Education: A Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Administration, Supervision, or a related field is required.
• Certification: Preferred: hold a valid Michigan elementary teaching certificate with an early childhood endorsement. If on a temporary certificate, the director must take appropriate courses to retain certification. Minimum Requirement: (a) All of the following: (i) A minimum of 3 months of experience. (ii) A valid child development associate credential, Montessori credential, infant family associate credential, or associate degree in a child-related field.
• Experience: Preferred: 5 years of prior teaching experience, with demonstrated leadership experience in administration. Minimum Requirement: 1 year of prior teaching experience.
• Must be First Aid/CPR certified and keep certification up to date.
• Must successfully complete a criminal record background check and fingerprinting clearance (iChat, CHRISS, and LARA checks).

II. Core Duties and Responsibilities

A. Spiritual and Curriculum Leadership

• Ensure that all curriculum and teaching methods are consistent with Biblical and Lutheran teaching to promote the students' spiritual development.
• Plan, prepare, and teach during preschool sessions as required, implementing the academic curriculum in all core areas.
• Develop, plan, and supervise curriculum to nurture the spiritual, social, emotional, and academic development of the whole child, utilizing CPH Preschool materials and age-appropriate Bible lessons.
• Use Matthew 18:15-17 as the guide for conflict resolution.

B. Program Administration and Compliance

• Oversee the day-to-day operation of the center, defining and publishing all program policies (tuition rates, admission, attendance, etc.).
• Ensure full program adherence to Michigan state licensing regulations, health, and safety regulations at all times.
• Prepare, complete, and submit all required reports and forms to the Principal, Board, and state officials in a timely manner.
• Update and maintain the Preschool Handbook and keep accurate student and staff records.

C. Staff Management and Development

• Consult with the Principal/Board regarding the recruiting, screening, hiring, and termination of all Early Childhood staff and volunteers.
• In collaboration with the principal, provide supervision, training, and spiritual growth opportunities for all staff members.
• Conduct regular staff meetings and perform annual teacher performance evaluations to coach staff for improved performance.
• Maintain the required staff:child ratio and secure qualified substitute teachers as needed.

D. Financial, Enrollment, and Community Relations

• Develop and operate the program within the constraints of the annual budget, overseeing the collection and depositing of tuition and fees.
• Actively advertise, promote, and describe the program to the congregation and the wider Traverse City community (e.g., newsletters, social media, bulletins).
• Maintain a Christian professional relationship with colleagues, parents, and students, providing ongoing communication to parents.
• Order, inventory, and manage supplies, equipment, and curriculum materials.

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 40 – 50 per week

Work Location: In person