Preschool Director

About Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool (OCP):

Founded in 2005, Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool (OCP) is a vibrant, community-oriented preschool that emphasizes diversity, inclusivity, and active parental involvement in education. At OCP, we aim to create a warm and welcoming environment where children and families thrive. Rooted in a belief that learning is a collaborative journey, we encourage children to explore, grow, and develop the foundational skills necessary for success in life, while fostering curiosity, empathy, creativity, and resilience.

As a Parent Cooperative Preschool, OCP follows the principles of Parent Cooperative Preschools International (PCPI). Parents, guided by the Director, are actively engaged in all aspects of school operations, from hiring teachers to organizing educational programming and enrichment activities. Our school’s strength lies in its deep sense of community, where families, teachers, and staff work together to nurture the next generation.

Position: Director of Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool

The Director is the heart of Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool and plays a critical role in nurturing our school’s vision and values. As the point of contact for families, staff, and the broader community, the Director fosters a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture. The ideal candidate is a compassionate, solution-oriented leader with a deep understanding of early childhood development and a strong commitment to fostering a community-centered educational environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Community Building:

• Visionary Leadership: Uphold and promote OCP’s mission to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where children, families, and teachers thrive together.
• Family Engagement: Cultivate relationships with families, creating a welcoming and supportive environment. Host regular parent forums, workshops, and informal gatherings (e.g., coffee chats) to foster strong connections within the community.
• Policy and Compliance: Ensure compliance with state and local regulations, school policies, and best practices for early childhood education, including child safety and confidentiality. Administer the Emergency Action Plan and ensure staff are trained in safety protocols.
• School Culture: Create a school culture of collaboration, respect, and ongoing learning. Lead by example, inspiring both staff and families to be active participants in the school community.

Staff Leadership & Development:

• Teacher Support & Supervision: Act as the primary support for the teaching team. Provide guidance, feedback, and regular performance evaluations (twice per year). Lead staff meetings and create opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.
• Professional Development: Advocate for teachers' ongoing professional development, ensuring access to relevant training and enrichment opportunities that align with OCP’s values and educational philosophies.
• Classroom Support: Ensure that teachers have the resources, support, and guidance needed to create dynamic, child-centered learning environments. Provide direct classroom support when necessary, particularly in cases of unexpected staff absence.
• Collaborative Planning: Foster a collaborative atmosphere where teachers have the autonomy and tools to design creative curricula that reflect OCP’s emphasis on exploration, social-emotional learning, and hands-on engagement with the world.

Operations & Administration:

• Staffing & Hiring: Support the hiring process for teachers and staff, participating in interviews and onboarding new team members. Ensure a smooth transition for new hires with appropriate training and mentorship.
• Budget & Resource Management: Oversee the school’s budget for educational supplies, ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently. Work with the Treasurer to track expenses and report on the budget as needed.
• Enrollment & Family Outreach: Actively participate in marketing efforts to maintain and increase enrollment. Lead school tours for prospective families, ensuring a clear understanding of OCP’s mission and values. Review child placements to ensure developmentally appropriate groupings.
• Communication & Reporting: Ensure effective communication with staff, parents, and the board through various channels (e.g., ParentSquare). Provide regular updates to the Board of Directors and attend monthly board meetings as a non-voting advisor.

Health, Safety, & Well-Being:

• Safety Protocols: Enforce health and safety standards, ensuring that staff are well-trained in CPR, first aid, and emergency procedures. Maintain a safe, clean, and secure environment for children and staff.
• Social-Emotional Learning: Promote the Conscious Discipline method, integrating it into the school’s culture and encouraging both teachers and parents to support children’s social-emotional development.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• A strong understanding of early childhood development, with a focus on social-emotional learning and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Experience with various early childhood education pedagogies such as Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Waldorf, and/or Creative Curriculum.
• Proven ability to lead and support a diverse team of educators, fostering a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.
• Skills & Attributes:
• Deep passion for early childhood education and a commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive community.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with parents, staff, and the broader community.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage budgets, staffing, and schedules.
• Experience in conflict resolution and ability to handle sensitive issues with tact and professionalism.
• A solutions-oriented mindset, with the ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the school community.
• Certifications:
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Training in Darkness to Light or equivalent child abuse prevention programs.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Schedule: Part-time, 25 hours per week.
• Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience.
• Benefits: Paid time off, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment where your ideas and leadership are valued.

Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Morning shift

Work Location: In person