Director of Early Childhood

Director of Early Childhood

The Preschool Place & Kindergarten (PSP&K) is seeking a hands-on leader who will continue to build upon our successful school.  We have been educating children and building strong relationships with families for over 40 years.  We are an award-winning, non-sectarian school within Temple Sholom of Bridgewater, NJ serving approximately 100 children, ages 2 through 6.   

Our mission is to provide a quality preschool and kindergarten education in a nurturing environment where children can develop a positive self-image and a love of learning.  The Preschool Place & Kindergarten is “where quality and caring meet”.    

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in early childhood education, elementary education or child development.
• At least 3 years of teaching experience in a preschool.
• Minimum of 2 years of management experience (preferably in early childhood education).
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with proven success for building positive relationships with families, children, and staff.
• Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills. Must be computer proficient with the ability to promote and communicate using technology and social media.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Establish, manage, and meet the financial goals of the school in terms of student enrollment, tuition revenue, payroll, budget and business operations.
• Assure that all public and non-public funding is obtained and utilized as per the requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing regulations and documentation, including but not limited to, staff qualifications, teacher/child ratios and health/safety requirements (including emergency preparedness).
• Understand and manage the use of the Procare application for parent/teacher communication.
• Supervise social media communication and content on our website, Facebook, etc. as well as other modes of marketing and promotion.
• Work cooperatively with Temple Sholom on day-to-day operations including building maintenance, safety and security. Supervise custodial staff during preschool hours.

Educational Responsibilities:

• Responsible for hiring, managing, supporting and maintaining retention of teachers and administrative staff.
• Review teacher lesson plans to ensure that daily experiences are developmentally appropriate and encompass all skill areas, following best practices in early childhood education.
• Collaborate with staff to identify student needs and provide resources for family support as needed.
• Facilitate team meetings and inspire a feeling of connection among staff.
• Oversee Judaic program promoting Jewish identity and values to Jewish children as an elective enrichment class.
• Supervise summer camp program.

Family and Community:

• Ensure successful enrollment through prospective family interactions including tours with families articulating PSP&K values and educational excellence with honesty and sincerity.
• Connect with parents and families in a friendly and approachable manner.
• Develop trusting relationships with parents and families.
• Effective and ongoing communication with parents and families, responding to concerns in a reassuring and validating manner.
• Demonstrate the values of PSP&K to ensure year-over-year student retention as well as continued alumni relationships.
• Oversee volunteer committees in planning events to elicit family participation and a sense of community.

Perform other duties as necessary.