Find & Apply For Preschool / Childcare Director Jobs in Charleston, Illinois

OVERVIEW

Immanuel Lutheran Preschool is seeking a passionate, organized, and faith-filled Co-Director to join our leadership team. While serving alongside the Preschool Director, the Co-Director functions as the assistant to the Preschool Director, supporting the daily operations and leadership of the preschool. The Preschool Director serves as the primary administrator and final authority in all operational, personnel, and program decisions. This is a dual-role position. During the first half of each workday, the Co-Director serves as the lead teacher in an assigned preschool classroom, providing high-quality, Christ-centered instruction and care. During the second half of the day, the Co-Director transitions into administrative responsibilities, assisting the Preschool Director with the daily operation of the preschool, staff support, enrollment, licensing compliance, family communication, and other leadership duties. The Co-Director plays an essential role in fostering a Christ-centered environment where children, families, and staff thrive while ensuring the preschool remains compliant with state regulations and aligned with the mission and ministry of Immanuel Lutheran Church.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Christian Leadership The Co-Director will: Model Christ's love through words, actions, and relationships with children, families, and staff. Support the mission and ministry of Immanuel Lutheran Church and Preschool. Foster a welcoming, positive, and Christ-centered environment.

Classroom Responsibilities The Co-Director will:

Serve as the lead teacher in an assigned classroom during the instructional portion of the workday. Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences. Integrate Christian teachings into daily classroom activities. Maintain a safe, engaging, and well-managed classroom. Communicate with families regarding student progress and classroom activities. Ensure classroom compliance with DCFS regulations and preschool policies. Administrative Responsibilities The Co-Director will assist the Preschool Director by: Supporting daily preschool operations and serving as acting administrator when delegated. Helping maintain compliance with DCFS licensing requirements and health and safety regulations. Assisting with enrollment, classroom assignments, staffing, and scheduling. Supporting staff through coaching, mentoring, classroom observations, and professional development. Assisting with purchasing supplies, maintaining records, and preparing licensing documentation. Implementing preschool policies and procedures as outlined in the Staff and Parent Handbooks. Supporting family communication, enrollment, orientation, and preschool events. Assisting with budget monitoring and other administrative projects as assigned.

Program Support The Co-Director will:

Support implementation of the preschool curriculum and Christian education program. Encourage developmentally appropriate teaching practices. Monitor children's progress and assist in maintaining quality educational programming. Participate in program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS

The Co-Director should: Be at least 21 years of age and meet all DCFS qualifications. Meet Illinois DCFS Director educational requirements, including either: A) An Associate Degree (or higher) in Early Childhood Education or Child Development; or B) The equivalent education and coursework required by Illinois DCFS, along with the required Director Credential or approved administration coursework/training. Have experience working in an early childhood setting; previous leadership experience is preferred. Demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Work collaboratively with staff while supporting the leadership of the Preschool Director. Exhibit professionalism, flexibility, initiative, and a genuine love for children and families. Previous experience in a licensed early childhood program. Knowledge of Illinois DCFS licensing regulations. Ability to pass all required background checks and fingerprinting. Current CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).

MISSION STATEMENT

Immanuel Lutheran Preschool is a Christ-centered ministry dedicated to nurturing the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of every child. Through engaging, play-based learning experiences rooted in God's Word, we partner with families to help children grow into lifelong learners who are Loving Jesus, Loving Learning, and Loving One Another.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$40,000.00 - $42,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance

Experience:

Early Childhood:

3 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person