Executive School Director

Location: Dedham, MA
Reports To: Regional Director

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, dynamic Executive School Director to lead the daily operations of our early childhood education center. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring educational excellence, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, financial performance, and exceptional family engagement. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who is passionate about early childhood education, develops high-performing teams, and creates a positive, nurturing environment where children, families, and staff thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Staff Development

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and develop teaching and administrative staff.
• Foster a positive, collaborative workplace culture that supports professional growth.
• Conduct classroom observations and provide coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback.
• Lead staff meetings and ensure alignment with organizational goals and educational standards.
• Support performance management and professional development initiatives.
• Maintain appropriate staffing levels and teacher-to-child ratios.

School Operations

• Oversee all day-to-day school operations, ensuring high-quality educational programming and efficient resource management.
• Monitor compliance with state licensing regulations, company policies, and safety standards.
• Maintain accurate administrative records for staff and children.
• Ensure classrooms and facilities remain clean, safe, and well-maintained.
• Coordinate equipment maintenance and facility repairs as needed.

Financial & Enrollment Management

• Manage the school's budget and financial performance.
• Develop and execute enrollment strategies to maximize classroom capacity while maintaining licensing ratios.
• Collaborate with regional leadership on seasonal enrollment planning and business objectives.
• Monitor enrichment programs to ensure successful implementation and enrollment.

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary ambassador for the school within the local community.
• Build strong relationships with families through open communication and exceptional customer service.
• Conduct parent orientations, conferences, and school events.
• Partner with marketing and leadership teams to increase enrollment and community awareness.
• Develop partnerships with local organizations to strengthen community engagement.

Educational Excellence & Compliance

• Ensure implementation of a high-quality early childhood curriculum.
• Support teachers in delivering engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
• Maintain compliance with all state licensing requirements and internal quality standards.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for children, families, and staff.
• Address operational and personnel issues professionally while fostering a positive school culture.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education Administration, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Must meet applicable state Director qualification requirements.

Experience

• Minimum of two years of experience in a licensed childcare setting.
• Previous leadership experience as an Assistant Director, Program Director, or similar supervisory role preferred.
• Demonstrated success leading teams, managing school operations, and supporting enrollment growth.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Experience with budgeting, financial management, and operational oversight.
• Knowledge of early childhood licensing regulations and compliance requirements.
• Ability to coach and mentor staff while maintaining high educational standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other administrative software.
• Commitment to building positive relationships with families, staff, and community partners.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry children weighing up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary ($40-$47/hour)
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k)
• Tuition discount
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities
• Career advancement within a growing organization