Preschool Director

Are you a kind, warm, and enthusiastic early childhood educator? We are seeking a Preschool Director for our Gan Mah Tov (lit. “Really Good Preschool”) infant/toddler and preschool programs in Oakland, California. The Director, who reports to the Beth Jacob Congregation Board President, will play a pivotal role in ensuring that our preschool is a model of excellence in early childhood education, deeply rooted in our Jewish heritage.

Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Management:
• Create a warm preschool environment and a positive and collaborative work environment
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the preschool, including hiring, scheduling, HR management, student management, and budget management
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with licensing regulations and best practices in early childhood education
• Serve as a floater teacher in the classroom, as needed
2. Curriculum Development:
• Collaborate with teachers to design a developmentally appropriate curriculum that promotes the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children
• Foster a love of Jewish learning and integrate Jewish values, holidays, and traditions into daily activities and learning experiences
• Stay abreast of current research and best practices in early childhood education to continuously improve the curriculum and educational program
3. Enrollment Management:
• Manage the enrollment process from inquiry to enrollment, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for families
• Conduct tours and showcase the Gan for prospective families
• Maintain accurate records of enrollment data, including inquiries, applications, admissions, and retention rates
4. Parent and Community Engagement:
• Cultivate strong relationships with parents through effective communication, regular updates, and opportunities for involvement in their child's education
• Build connections with synagogue members and the broader Jewish community to drive pipeline into the infant/toddler and preschool programs
5. Staff Development and Training:
• Recruit, train, and mentor an exceptional staff and team of educators
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to ensure the highest quality of teaching and care
6. Child Welfare and Safety:
• Ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all children and staff
• Maintain a safe and clean environment that meets or exceeds licensing standards

Qualifications:

• Qualified per California Title 22
• Knowledge of state licensing regulations for infant/toddler and preschool programs
• Passion for early childhood education
• Strong leadership and communications skills
• Strong knowledge of Jewish values, holidays, and traditions preferred
• Familiarity with Hebrew language preferred

Benefits:

• $90,000 - $120,000
• May include housing benefits
• Professional development options
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options
• Retirement plan and flexible spending account
• 10 days of paid time off, in addition to paid spring break, winter break, Jewish holidays, and federal holidays
• Meaningful work in a supportive and collaborative environment

Are you ready to come work with us?

• Target start date: June 2025 (negotiable)
• Preschool hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Thursday and 8:30 am – 4:00 pm on Fridays
• Our vibrant, nonprofit preschool of 30+ children is located in Beth Jacob Congregation, a Modern Orthodox synagogue in Oakland, California

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter  to Bev Weinberger ([email protected]) with subject line “Application for Gan Director.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.