Executive Director

Summary The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief administrator and visionary leader for Growing Roots Preschool. This position is a part-time role (max 25 hours/week) offering a blend of on-site leadership and remote administrative flexibility. The ED is responsible for the school's long-term sustainability, financial health, and adherence to our mission of providing high-quality, child-led education. This role requires a highly organized, detail-oriented professional with exceptional communication skills. The ED focuses on the outward-facing aspects of the preschool, including administrative oversight, financial health, fundraising, marketing, and parent relations. In close collaboration with the Lead Teacher, the ED ensures an excellent child experience, meets state licensing requirements, and fosters a cohesive teaching team.

Position Details Compensation:

$20.00 per hour.

Time Commitment:

Maximum of 25 hours per week.

Work Environment:

Possibility for flexible, hybrid schedule

Coverage:

As part of the leadership team, the ED is expected to provide occasional on-site coverage for staff shifts if necessary to maintain student-teacher ratios.

Apply here:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjyXOEPyOJBZvVpm-Jt-KgfLw2Kwx2TEbTYm212M6k

EiZOWw/viewform Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Compliance Strategic Planning:

Develop and implement long-range plans in collaboration with the Board of Directors.

Policy Oversight:

Oversee preschool and board policies, ensuring regular review and full compliance.

Safety & Licensing:

Maintain adherence to state licensing regulations and health standards; collaborate with Custer Lutheran Fellowship Church on building security protocols.

Financial & Resource Development Financial Management:

Oversee the annual operating budget and work with the Board Treasurer to ensure long-term stability. Responsible for parent billing and expense reporting.

Donor Development:

Create and execute an annual fundraising plan, including events, grants, appeals, and cultivating individual donor relationships.

Marketing:

Develop a marketing strategy to promote a positive community image and drive student recruitment.

Staff & Operational Management Team Leadership:

Lead recruitment, onboarding, training, and professional evaluations for all staff.

Culture Building:

Foster a team dynamic among staff, volunteers, and board committees (e.g., marketing, policy review) based on trust and collaboration.

Administration:

Maintain organized systems for employee and enrollment records; develop and manage a volunteer program.

Community & Classroom Support Liaison:

Act as the primary spokesperson for Growing Roots with families, stakeholders, and local organizations.

Classroom Collaboration:

Meet basic state licensing requirements to occasionally assist in the classroom; partner with the Lead Teacher on classroom policies and parent communication. Experience and Qualifications Education & Certification Candidates must meet South Dakota state minimum requirements for a Director by possessing at least one of the following: Bachelor's degree in education or human development or related field. Two-year degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE). Child Development Associate (CDA) or comparable state-determined credential. Certification in a specific child learning philosophy plus one year of childcare experience. Child development technician diploma. Four years of experience in a center or school-age program.

Technical & Professional Skills Tools:

Familiarity with (or willingness to learn) Google Business, Google Ads/Analytics, and Social Media.

Systems:

Experience with CRM tools, event management, and project management software.

Philosophy:

Experience with Montessori environments and philosophy is preferred.

Core Competencies Autonomy:

Ability to operate independently and execute projects from end-to-end.

Accountability:

Ability to delegate to teams/committees while holding ultimate responsibility for results.

Communication:

Strong organizational skills with clear, succinct written and oral communication.

Discretion:

Absolute commitment to maintaining confidentiality regarding staff, children, families, and operations.

Apply here:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjyXOEPyOJBZvVpm-Jt-KgfLw2Kwx2TEbTYm212M6k

EiZOWw/viewform Pay:

From $20.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person