Preschool Director

Preschool Director

San Diego Hebrew Day School (SDHD)
Reports to: Head of School

Position Overview

San Diego Hebrew Day School is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and collaborative Preschool Director to lead and grow our early childhood program. The Preschool Director oversees all aspects of the preschool, including program development, licensing compliance, faculty supervision, and family engagement.

We are looking for a leader with strong expertise in early childhood education, a deep appreciation for Jewish values and traditions, and a commitment to building a warm, inclusive, and engaging learning environment. The ideal candidate is approachable, communicative, and thrives in a collaborative school culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight of the preschool program, including curriculum, instruction, and daily operations

• Ensure full compliance with California licensing requirements (Title 5 and Title 22)

• Hire, supervise, support, and evaluate preschool faculty and staff

• Foster a positive, respectful, and engaging environment for children, families, and staff

• Monitor student development across academic, social, and emotional domains

• Partner with teachers to communicate student progress clearly and consistently with families

• Collaborate closely with the school’s administrative team to support school-wide initiatives and community-building efforts

• Lead program growth and continuous improvement aligned with best practices in early childhood education

Qualifications

• Strong background in early childhood education, including child development and developmentally appropriate practices

• Prior experience in a leadership or director role preferred

• Familiarity with, and appreciation for, Jewish values, culture, and traditions (formal Jewish education background strongly preferred)

• Demonstrated ability to build meaningful relationships with children, families, and staff

• Strong leadership, organizational, and staff development skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to approach problem-solving with positivity, creativity, and flexibility

• Commitment to collaboration and teamwork across all levels of the school community

Required Credentials

• Must hold or be eligible for a California Child Development Permit at the Site Supervisor or Program Director level

• Meets one of the following:

  • AA (or 60 units) with required ECE units and supervisory experience

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher with ECE units and field experience

  • Teaching/Administrative credential with ECE units

  • Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Core Competencies

• Leadership with approachability and strong relationship-building

• Commitment to collaboration and team development

• Strong communication with families and the broader community

• Ability to set and uphold clear policies and standards

• Passion for fostering joyful, engaging early childhood experiences