Daycare and Preschool Director

Position Summary:

The WLT director is responsible for the overall management and leadership of the preschool and the before/after care programs. This includes ensuring a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment where children can grow socially, emotionally, physically, spiritually and intellectually. The director oversees daily operations, curriculum development, staff supervision, licensing compliance, and communication with families and Westminster. The director, though not a member of the church, is the face of Westminster to the preschool community. This role requires a passionate and organized leader who is committed to high-quality early childhood education and fostering positive relationships with children, families, staff, and the church.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Administration

• Manage daily operations of the preschool in accordance with state licensing and regulatory requirements.

• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure high-quality care and education.

• Create and manage the preschool’s budget, including tuition, payroll, and expenses.

• Maintain accurate records, including enrollment, staff credentials, and health and safety documentation.

Curriculum & Learning Environment

• Oversee the planning and implementation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum.

• Ensure classrooms and learning materials meet health, safety, and educational standards.

• Support individualized learning and inclusive practices for children with diverse needs.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate teaching and support staff.

• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities and foster a collaborative team culture.

• Schedule staff and ensure adequate coverage and compliance with child-to-staff ratios.

Family, Community, and Westminster Engagement

• Build strong relationships with families through regular communication and engagement.

• Build strong relationships with Westminster’s pastor and office staff.

• Work closely with the WLT Oversight Committee, mindful that WLT is amission of the church.

• Attend three special services on Sunday mornings at Westminster each year, (and invite WLT families); including, but not limited to the Back-to-School Service in August, the Children’s Christmas program in December, and once in the spring semester.

• Address parent concerns professionally and promptly.

• Represent the preschool in community outreach and public relations efforts.

• Perform other related duties as assigned or required to support the overall success of the program.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Child Development, or a related field (required).

• Director-level certification or licensure, as required by the state.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in early childhood education, including supervisory experience.

• Strong understanding of child development, early learning standards, and best practices.

• Familiarity with local and state childcare licensing requirements.

• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Core Competencies:

• Strong leadership and organizational skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

• Ability to build trust and positive relationships with families, staff, and Westminster

• Flexibility, problem-solving, and decision-making skills

• Passion for early childhood education and child development

This is a salaried position: WLT is open from 7:00 - 5:30, however the Director is required to be in the building from 8:00 - 4:30 each day.

Salary will be based on experience with entry level of $40,000. There are no health care benefits provided.

The Director will receive one week (5 days) paid vacation after the first year, in addition to days the center is closed.

Pay: $40,000.00 - $46,000.00 per year

License/Certification:

• Director's Certification from the State of Missouri (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $46,000