Director of Early Childhood Education

We are looking for an innovative Director of Early Childhood Education for The Philip J. Solondz Preschool at Temple Beth Shalom, in Livingston, New Jersey. Temple Beth Shalom is a fully egalitarian, inclusive congregation affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, with a commitment to Jewish education and outreach to the community. Our congregation is thriving and active, and the preschool is housed in our dedicated childhood learning center with secure indoor and outdoor facilities.

The Director will work in partnership with our rabbi, cantor, educators, and leadership to grow our program, shape curriculum, market to and communicate with potential families in the local Jewish and general community. The Director will oversee a vibrant early childhood program from infant care through Pre-K. The successful candidate will bring great energy and creativity to the position and work with children and our families to broaden the appeal of the preschool.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage day-to-day activities in the infant-toddler care and preschool programs; support classrooms and teachers; nurture children’s curiosity

• Increase enrollment by developing innovative marketing, programs, and curriculum that appeal to the Livingston community and surrounding areas

• Recruit, interview, hire, and supervise staff

• Demonstrate respect, openness, understanding, and commitment to children with diverse backgrounds, interests, and abilities

• Plan and organize daily and yearly curriculum and calendars for the primary groups in Jewish Studies, General Studies, and Hebrew that are in line with progressive educational approaches

• Partner with the rabbi and cantor to infuse Jewish values, holidays, and cultural experiences into the program

• Promote the inherent dignity and equality of every human being and inspire children to become compassionate citizens

• Cultivate in children a love of Torah and Jewish tradition (customs, Shabbat and holidays, food, and culture)

• Promote a positive connection to the Jewish people and the State of Israel

• Participate in continued professional development and keep up to date on early childhood research and trends

• Implement appropriate technology for use in classrooms, remote learning, and for communications with families and reporting systems

• Ensure compliance with New Jersey state licensing and reporting requirements

• Work with synagogue lay leaders and staff to develop the annual budget

• Understand the needs and desires of preschool parents and promote a balance between program goals and specific parent goals

• Promote a positive work environment and support staff professional development

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required. Master’s Degree preferred (without a master’s degree, must have adequate prior experience to satisfy NJ requirements)

• Supervisory experience in a similar position

• Knowledge of and ability to implement New Jersey standards for licensed child care centers

• Proven ability to lead professional development efforts and support educators within a teaching and learning environment

• Dynamic leadership, motivated to inspire and be inclusive

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to communicate with parents, children, staff, and leadership in a confident and calm manner

• Strong computer skills

• Musical background preferred but not required

COMPENSATION:

Salary is commensurate with experience.  Range: $85,000-$90,000.  We offer a competitive compensation package which includes vacation, synagogue membership, a contribution toward the Temple Beth Shalom health insurance plan, and a professional development allowance. You will become part of our caring community as a member of our senior staff. Start date of July 1, 2026.

Please submit a detailed resume and thoughtful cover letter to [email protected]