Executive Director at Nature-Based Montessori-Inspired Program

Craftsbury Saplings Community Children’s Center is seeking a creative, caring, and collaborative Executive Director to lead our mission-driven early childhood program. We are looking for someone who recognizes early childhood as a critical foundation for lifelong growth, values respect and belonging, and brings joy, curiosity, and optimism to their work.

Rooted in child-centered, nature-based, and Montessori-inspired principles, the Craftsbury Saplings program serves children ages 15 months to 5 years in a setting that celebrates growth, connection, and time outdoors.

Our program is growing with a planned expansion. We are thrilled to work towards serving our community more fully with the addition of two new classrooms and expanded ages to include infants. If you are a leader excited to collaborate and make an impact on local families, children, and communities, we hope to hear from you!

The Executive Director (ED) role is a full-time position, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, strategic direction, financial health, and organizational culture of the center. The ED is both the visionary and operational leader of Craftsbury Saplings. The individual in this role ensures that our programming aligns with our core values, and nurtures an environment where both staff and children can thrive. The ED reports to the Board of Directors.

Duties

Organizational Leadership & Vision

• Guide long-term strategic planning for the organization, in partnership with the Board and Staff.
• Lead the organization with clarity, compassion, and purpose, fostering a culture of collaboration and joy, and championing continuous improvement and adaptation to the needs of children, families, and staff.

Program Oversight

• Guide the development of a high-quality, child-centered, nature-based early childhood education program.
• Work with the program staff to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.
• In partnership with the Program Director: Coordinate field trips and special programming; oversee parent teacher conferences and team meetings; and ensure the curriculum is consistent across classrooms.

Staff Leadership & Culture

• Recruit, hire, supervise, and support a passionate team of educators and staff.
• Directly manage 5 staff members, and oversee a full staff of 10-12, in partnership with the Program Director.
• Provide emergency coverage for staff members when necessary.
• Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and equitable workplace with attention to professional development for staff.

Family & Community Engagement

• Manage communication with both prospective and enrolled families.
• Build strong relationships with families, and encourage their meaningful involvement in the program.
• Collaborate with local partners, including libraries, businesses, public agencies, and service providers.

Finance & Administration

• Ensure sound administrative systems for enrollment, licensing, safety, and record keeping.
• Develop and manage the annual budget and fundraising plan, in partnership with the Board Treasurer.
• Oversee payroll, billing, and grant compliance, alongside the Administrative Assistant.

Requirements

• Proven leadership experience in early childhood education or community-based non-profit organizations
• Knowledge of Vermont’s childcare systems, licensing regulations, and funding streams
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and conflict-resolution skills
• A commitment to play-based, nature-centered education and inclusive practices

Nice To Haves

• Experience with budgeting and organizational development
• An active teaching license, or an interest in obtaining one

• Relocation Assistance
• Vision and Dental Insurance
• Employer-sponsored Retirement Fund
• Paid Time Off
• Paid professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental and Family Leave
• Daily meals and additional community benefits