Find & Apply For Elementary and Secondary School Administrator Jobs in Upper Arlington, Ohio

Preschool DirectorAbout The Goddard School of Upper Arlington The Goddard School of Upper Arlington is a brand-new early childhood education program opening in January 2027. Backed by the nationally recognized Goddard Systems franchise network, our school will provide a warm, nurturing environment where children from infancy through Pre-K can learn, grow, and thrive through a research-based, play-based curriculum. The Goddard School of Upper Arlington is part of a growing ownership group operating five Goddard locations across Central Ohio. As we open this new school, we are looking for a strong leader who is excited to help build a positive school culture, develop a great team, and create an exceptional experience for children, families, and staff from day one. Position Summary The Preschool Director is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and operations of The Goddard School of Upper Arlington. Working closely with and reporting to the Head of School, this person will be a steady, visible presence in the building, supporting staff, families, classrooms, compliance, and the overall operation of the school. As a new school, the Preschool Director will also play an important role in establishing systems, building team culture, supporting the school's opening, and creating a welcoming environment for our founding families and staff. The right candidate is dependable, people-oriented, and passionate about creating a safe, nurturing environment where both children and teachers can thrive.

Key Responsibilities Staff Management:

Provide day-to-day supervision and support for classroom and administrative staff; assist with scheduling, manage time-off requests, and ensure adequate coverage across the school.

Staff Training & Development:

Coordinate and lead onboarding for new hires; assist in the design and delivery of ongoing professional development and training aligned with Goddard Systems standards and best practices in early childhood education.

Educational Program Support:

Partner with the Head of School to implement and uphold the educational program; conduct regular classroom walk-throughs, support teachers in curriculum delivery, and help maintain a high standard of instructional quality throughout the school.

Compliance & Licensing:

Ensure the school consistently meets Ohio childcare licensing requirements and Goddard Systems franchise standards; maintain up-to-date records, coordinate inspections, and address compliance items promptly.

Daily Operations:

Oversee the school's daily operational flow, including supplies, vendor relationships, facility readiness, classroom environments, and overall organization.

Family Engagement:

Serve as a warm, approachable point of contact for current and prospective families; handle day-to-day parent communications, address concerns with care, and help foster strong relationships between the school and the families it serves.

Administrative Support:

Support the Head of School with operational reporting, special projects, hiring, and school-wide initiatives as needed.

School Opening:

Support the Head of School and ownership team in preparing the school for opening, including staff onboarding, classroom preparation, operational systems, and creating a welcoming experience for our founding families.

QualificationsRequired:

8+ years of experience in a school, childcare, or people management role. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with a genuine warmth toward children, families, and staff. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, child-centered environment. Comfortable taking initiative and working independently on day-to-day decisions while keeping the Head of School informed. Willingness to learn Ohio childcare licensing regulations and Goddard Systems standards.

Preferred:

Experience in early childhood education or franchise school operations. Background in staff training, coaching, or instructional support. Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Business Administration, or a related field. Work Environment Full-time, on-site position at The Goddard School of Upper Arlington in Upper Arlington, OH. Daily presence in the building is expected—this is a hands-on, in-person role. Occasional evening or weekend availability for school events may be required.

Physical requirements:

Ability to move throughout the building, conduct classroom walk-throughs, and lift up to 25 lbs. Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to help open a brand-new Goddard School and play an important role in shaping its culture from the very beginning. You'll have the opportunity to build a strong team, establish effective systems, support teachers, and create a welcoming environment where children and families feel at home. You'll also be joining an ownership group with five Goddard locations across Central Ohio and opportunities to grow alongside an expanding organization. If you love being around children, take pride in a well-run school, and want to help build something from the ground up, we'd love to hear from you. How to Apply Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in this role and relevant experience. We review applications on a rolling basis and will contact qualified candidates promptly. Benefits 401(k) 401(k) matching Employee discount Paid time off

Work Location:

In person

Pay:

$50,000.00 - $63,000.00 per year

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

Early childhood education: 8 years (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person