Director of the Preschool

Miami Children's Museum is seeking a passionate and experienced Director of the Preschool to lead its Early Childhood Institute (ECI) and ensure the highest standards of early childhood education. This leadership role involves overseeing all aspects of preschool operations, curriculum development, staff management, compliance with licensing and accreditation standards, and fostering strong family and community partnerships. The Director will serve as the visionary leader for the preschool, ensuring innovative, play-based learning experiences that align with the Museum’s mission.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of early childhood education in a vibrant, museum-based learning environment. If you are an innovative leader who believes in the power of play, exploration, and creativity, we encourage you to apply!

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Educational Leadership: Design and oversee the implementation of a project-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired, High-Scope, and Conscious Discipline curriculum that nurtures creativity, inquiry, and child-centered learning.
• Program Development & Enhancement: Continuously assess and refine educational programs to complement the Museum’s exhibits and ensure a high-quality visitor experience.
• Staff Development & Supervision: Recruit, train, mentor, and inspire a team of dedicated early childhood educators. Conduct regular staff evaluations and performance reviews.
• Compliance & Accreditation: Ensure full compliance with DCF licensing regulations, NAEYC accreditation standards, Florida VPK, and Early Learning Coalition (ELC) requirements while maintaining excellence in safety and operational procedures.
• Family & Community Engagement: Lead family tours, open houses, orientations, and preschool communications to maintain strong relationships with families and the broader early childhood education community.
• Administrative & Fiscal Oversight: Manage preschool operations, including enrollment, budgeting, payroll, and educational technology systems (Procare, Paylocity, ELC portals, etc.).
• Collaborative Leadership: Work closely with the Director of Education, Museum leadership, Mental Health Specialists, and Outreach teams to align preschool initiatives with broader institutional goals.
• Advocacy & Professional Involvement: Represent the Museum Preschool in early childhood education networks by attending DCF webinars, ELC meetings, and maintaining active memberships in at least two professional organizations, including NAEYC.
• Innovation & Environment Design: Ensure learning environments reflect the Reggio Emilia philosophy, fostering creativity, exploration, and engagement for all children.
• Other Duties as Assigned: Contribute to special projects, events, and initiatives as needed to support the museum’s mission.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Active Florida Director’s Credential.
• 3-5 years of leadership experience in a preschool or early childhood education setting.
• Extensive experience with NAEYC accreditation, DCF licensing, High-Scope, Conscious Discipline, and Reggio Emilia approaches.
• Strong fiscal management and administrative skills, including experience with enrollment, budgeting, and educational software systems.
• Bilingual (English & Spanish) required to engage effectively with our diverse community.
• Passion for play-based, inquiry-driven early childhood education.

Compensation is commensurate with experience.