Preschool Director

At the Preschool at Congregation B’nai Israel, our vision is to nurture a generation of children equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world and contribute meaningfully to a brighter future. We believe that early childhood is the foundation for building values like kindness, collaboration, and resilience. Through a thoughtful, age-appropriate progression of programs, we focus on developing each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills in a warm, inclusive environment. Using proven play-based learning methods, we inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence, fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Check below to see if you have what is needed for this opportunity, and if so, make an application asap.

The Preschool is open to the community regardless of religious observance or background. Core school hours are from 9 : 00 a.m. to 2 : 30 p.m., with before-care from 8 : 00-9 : 00 a.m. and after-care from 2 : 30-6 : 00 p.m., and includes STEAM, creative and fitness-themed enrichment programs. We also offer an eight-week summer camp program.

Viewed as an essential component of the synagogue’s core mission and values, Congregation B’nai Israel Preschool is often a family’s first introduction to the synagogue community. It is in this vein that we are seeking an experienced, energetic, organized and nurturing Director to lead and grow the Preschool and camp, and to develop Shabbat and holiday programming for families with preschool-aged children. The ideal candidate is a warm, approachable person with a passion for childhood development and interacting with the students and their families, and has experience creating a collegial and cooperative work environment among experienced teachers who are passionate about their roles. The Director will work closely with the clergy team, executive director, lay leadership of the synagogue and the preschool board, which includes parents and educators who are there to support and offer guidance to ensure the success of the Director and the Preschool. This is a full-time position with occasional evenings and / or weekend commitments (for example to attend Preschool Board meetings, to oversee Shabbat and holiday programming, and to participate in occasional community events that may present marketing opportunities for the Preschool). Anticipated start date is July 1, 2025, or sooner if the right candidate is available.

Key Responsibilities :

• Administrative / educational : Advance the mission and vision of the Preschool; develop and implement an effective preschool curriculum; collaborate with clergy in establishing and implementing the Judaica curriculum; implement best practices related to early childhood education; develop school calendar; oversee enrollment.
• Staff : Oversee hiring, development, retention and compensation decisions for teachers; assist staff in setting and working toward professional goals; enable a positive culture of collaboration; provide staff with the structure and resources to create an environment of curiosity and ongoing professional development.
• Communication : Ensure effective and ongoing communication with parents regarding curriculum, policies and events; address sensitive issues with families using strong interpersonal skills.
• Marketing : Lead marketing efforts to achieve enrollment and retention goals; work with families to meet their needs; partner with synagogue marketing team to integrate preschool messaging.
• Community Building : Foster a welcoming environment for children and families; develop and oversee programming for preschool-aged children; advocate for the preschool in the community.
• Facilities and Security : Provide for the safety and well-being of participants; coordinate with executive director on facility needs; ensure staff knowledge of CPR and first aid.
• Budget and Finance : Work with the Preschool Board to develop and oversee the budget; research and apply for grants; provide monthly updates on financials and enrollment trends.
• Regulatory : Ensure compliance with all New Jersey and local licensing and safety regulations.

Qualifications :

Compensation : $80,000 yearly plus benefits.

To apply : Please send resume and cover letter to ruthkirshner@gmail.com

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Salary : $80,000