Pre-School Executive Director

CANTERBURY CHILDREN’S CENTER

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION (updated March 2021)

JOB SUMMARY

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall operation of Canterbury Children’s Center, a non-profit organization. This role is a full-time, year round position. The Executive Director provides daily management of Canterbury Children’s Center, supervises the center’s staff, and oversees the development and safety of the children enrolled in the center. The Executive Director oversees the implementation of play based, child-led, inquiry-based curricula, with a focus on observation, reflection, and documentation. The Executive Director works collaboratively with Canterbury Children’s Center Board of Directors and supports developmentally appropriate practices to foster a lifetime love and appreciation of learning.

REQUIREMENTS

This position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in education, child development, or a related field. Massachusetts EEC Director I or Director II Certification or equivalent (if licensed in another state) is also required. This position also requires at least 2-5 years of experience as a director in an educational environment, along with current First Aid Training and CPR Certification. The Executive Director must be familiar with the Creative Curriculum/Teaching Strategies evaluation tool and have proficiency with Access, Excel, Outlook, and Microsoft Word products. The Executive Director must also possess experience with social media platforms to promote the school and educate families. This role requires excellent interpersonal skills, especially written and verbal communications with government agencies, staff, families, and the Board of Directors. The Executive Director must possess a demonstrated ability to lead, energize, and effectively delegate tasks among interdisciplinary work teams, including other administrative personnel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred qualifications for the position include a Master’s Degree in education, child development, or a related field and previous involvement/experience in a non-profit preschool or childcare setting, along with experience with NAEYC and its accreditation process.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall operation of the Center, including but not limited to:

• Overseeing the administrative leadership of the school and ongoing daily administration and supervision of the program, staff, curriculum, and services in accordance with state and school policies
• Maintaining compliance with appropriate licensing bodies (EEC and NAEYC), organizing schedules, directing staff hiring and student admissions, and ensuring that student files are appropriately up-to-date
• Working with the parent-led Board of Directors recommending policies and procedures to ensure the daily operations of the school, as well as educational programs and innovations
• Attending monthly meetings of the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee
• Remaining available during normal operating hours of the Center
• Managing the Center’s budget and acting in a fiscally responsible manner
• Guiding a dedicated, experienced staff of educators in implementing the educational mission of the Center
• Inspiring and motivating teaching staff to advance their educations and knowledge of early childhood education 
• Holding monthly staff meetings
• Maintaining a welcoming and collaborative environment at Canterbury and in the community
• Maintaining and enhancing the school’s reputation and continuing to welcome a diverse enrollment population
• Maintaining the Center/Church working relationship
• Maintaining the Center’s engagement and leadership in local and national early childhood organizations and committees
• Dedicating time for teacher mentorship, personal professional development, and advocacy for the school and its families