Early Childhood Director

OVERVIEW AND MISSION OF FPDS

First Presbyterian Day School is a private Christian school serving over 600 students from early childhood through Grade 6. Accredited by the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools, FPDS offers academic, fine arts, and sports programs. We are located on the campus of First Presbyterian Church of Jackson, MS. Believing that children are a heritage of the Lord, the mission of FPDS is:

• Planting seeds of Christlikeness in the hearts of children
• Pursuing excellence in academics
• Preparing students for future service In God’s kingdom in their homes, churches, and professions

If you are interested in working in a challenging, professional, Christian environment where you can teach from a Biblical perspective; where you are treated as a professional; where the school environment is enjoyable, disciplined, and conducive to teaching and learning; and where the pursuit of academic excellence for God's glory is a hallmark of the school, FPDS may be the school for you. Visit our website at www.fpds.org/mission-beliefs for more information on FPDS.

JOB SUMMARY

FPDS is seeking a dedicated, passionate leader to join our educational team as Director of the Early Childhood Development program. The Early Childhood Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and management of the school’s Early Childhood Development program, which serves children from birth to 36 months. This role includes the leadership, training, and supervision of Early Childhood staff, while ensuring the delivery of a high-quality Christian-based curriculum that fosters the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth of each child. The ideal candidate will have proven skills and experience teaching in and managing an Early Childhood program. The job requires a leader who is committed to fostering a positive and engaging learning and workplace experience with teachers under their leadership and children in the program, while promoting, upholding, and exemplifying Christian values and principles. The Director must also ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations.

JOB TYPE, SUPERVISION AND REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

This job is for full-time, year-round employment, including both the normal school year plus summer programs. The job reports to the Lower School Principal.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Focus: Reflect the overarching purpose of the school, which is to honor Christ, in every class and activity. Integrate the school’s Christian values into all aspects of the Early Childhood program, including daily activities, lessons, and interactions with children, parents, and staff.
• Program Management: Oversee and manage all aspects of the Early Childhood program. Develop and implement an age-appropriate curriculum that aligns with the school’s Christian principles and meets the developmental needs of each child. Foster a collaborative and positive work environment, offering guidance and support to staff as needed. Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment for children and families.
• Staff Leadership & Development: Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate Early Childhood staff, including teachers, aides, and support personnel. Provide (or create opportunities for) ongoing professional development for staff in order to enhance their skills, maintain their certifications, and keep them current with best practices in Early Childhood education.
• Compliance & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of child attendance, health, and developmental progress. Ensure compliance with all Mississippi Department of Health and Mississippi State Department of Education regulations and licensing requirements. Prepare and submit necessary reports, documentation, and communications to regulatory agencies as required.
• Budget and Resource Management: Manage the budget for the Early Childhood program, ensuring proper allocation of resources for supplies, equipment, staff development, and any other resources needed. Monitor program expenses and make recommendations for cost-effective/cost-reduction solutions while adhering to FPDS’s high-quality standards.
• Parental Communication and Engagement: Develop and maintain regular and strong communication with parents to ensure they are informed about their child’s progress, needs, and program activities. Coordinate parent-teacher meetings and conferences, offering resources and support to parents as needed.

REQUIRED PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Christian faith
• Be a member in good standing at a local, evangelical church.
• Christian character

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Education: Bachelor’s degree (required), preferably in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred. Certification in Early Childhood Education and/or relevant state certifications.
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in Early Childhood education, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role. Experience working in a Christian educational environment is highly preferred.
• Skills and Abilities: Strong knowledge of the Early Childhood Development field, including familiarity with research, teaching practices, and state regulations. Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to lead, inspire, and support staff to create a positive, collaborative teaching and workplace environment. Computer and related proficiency; knowledge of Google Classroom, Google Docs, and FACTS is helpful. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging interpersonal situations with grace and professionalism.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The Early Childhood Director will be offered an annual salary, payable in 12 equal monthly installments on the last day of each month. Additionally, all FPDS employees with children in school through Grade 6 are required to enroll them in FPDS. Exceptions are made for children enrolled in public school or being cared for by family members. FPDS offers a substantial tuition discount for each child.

FPDS provides a comprehensive benefits package that supports their well-being and financial security. Benefits available to eligible full-time staff members include:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Tuition remission
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: From $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Childcare
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000