Preschool Director

Position: Preschool Director (Toddler - PreKindergarten)

Location: The Raleigh School, Raleigh, NC

Start Date: July 1, 2025

The Raleigh School, a respected independent school serving children from 18 months through fifth grade, seeks a dynamic and visionary Preschool Director to lead our toddler, preschool, and prekindergarten programs. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced educational leader with a deep passion for child development, progressive pedagogy, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative and joyful community.

About The Raleigh School

Located in the vibrant city of Raleigh, NC, The Raleigh School is a child- and family-centered independent school known for its play-based, hands-on, and integrated learning environment. For nearly 75 years, we have built a reputation for nurturing curiosity, creativity, and intellectual growth in children. Our preschool division is an integral part of our mission, providing a nurturing, engaging environment where children thrive through a balance of intellectual and emotional development. The Raleigh School prides itself on being mission-driven, maintaining a close-knit and supportive community of engaged faculty, staff, and families. The preschool division features six classrooms (11 class rosters), each surrounded by expansive outdoor learning spaces that include nature trails, water features, and wooded areas—providing children with ample opportunity for experiential, nature-based learning.

Key Responsibilities

As the Preschool Director, you will oversee all aspects of the preschool division, from day-to-day operations to long-term strategic planning. Your leadership will ensure that the program remains aligned with The Raleigh School’s mission and values while fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment for children, parents, and faculty.

• Leadership & Management: Lead the preschool division, overseeing staff development, budgeting, strategic planning, NAEYC accreditation, and daily operations. Manage a dedicated team of lead teachers, assistant teachers, and specialists.
• Pedagogical Leadership: Foster a culture of reflective practice by serving as an instructional leader. Collaborate with faculty to enhance play-based learning, emergent curriculum, and progressive pedagogy.
• Family Engagement: Cultivate strong relationships with families and serve as a visible presence on campus. Support families in understanding child development and educational practices, providing guidance on how they can best support their child’s learning journey.
• Research & Professional Development: Stay informed about the latest research in early childhood education, play, and social-emotional development. Share best practices and lead ongoing professional development for staff.
• Student Success: Ensure the intellectual and developmental success of all preschool students. Collaborate with parents, teachers, and other staff to monitor and support children's growth and well-being.
• Community Building & Admissions: Partner with admissions to showcase the preschool program through open houses, campus tours, and informational sessions. Play a key role in class placements and maintaining strong relationships with prospective and current families.
• Collaboration with Leadership Team: Serve as an active member of The Raleigh School's senior administrative leadership team, contributing to the school’s overall vision and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following:

• Advanced degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in early childhood education, with a strong background in independent school classrooms and administration.
• Deep understanding of child development, play-based learning, and emergent curriculum.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the ability to foster an inclusive environment for students, staff, and families.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.
• Technologically proficient.

Why The Raleigh School?

• Innovative Environment: The Raleigh School fosters creativity, autonomy, and flexibility, giving you the space to lead with innovation and passion.
• Community Engagement: Our parents are highly involved and supportive, contributing to a vibrant, close-knit school community.
• Professional Growth: We offer competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for professional development, ensuring that you continue to grow in your role.
• Location: Raleigh, NC, is part of the Research Triangle, a thriving area known for its excellent schools, research institutions, and cultural offerings.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to hiring@raleighschool.org.