Montessori Preschool Director Discovery Montessori Preschool Sacramento, CA Job Details Full-time $70,000 - $85,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Tuition reimbursement Paid time off Professional development assistance Flexible schedule Qualifications Vendor relationship building School experience CPR Certification Operations management Team leadership Team development Supervising experience Bachelor's degree First Aid Certification Teaching experience with young children Parent-teacher conferences (communication methods) Full Job Description

OVERVIEW

Discovery Montessori is a well-established, community-centered Montessori preschool in Sacramento, supported by the families who make up its Parent Board. Our school is grounded in strong relationships, a thoughtful Montessori approach, and a shared commitment to providing a warm, engaging environment where children can learn and grow. The Director serves as the school's educational and operational leader, supporting the quality of the classroom experience, guiding and developing the teaching team, overseeing day-to-day operations, and fostering strong relationships with families and the Parent Board. This is a hands-on, collaborative role for someone who enjoys being an active part of a school community - supporting teachers, navigating day-to-day needs, and building positive, trusting relationships with staff, children, families, and Board members. The role is organized into four core areas of responsibility: student education & curriculum, staff leadership & development, school operations & administration, and parent & community engagement.

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES 1.

Student Education & Curriculum — 20% Champion Montessori philosophy and practice consistently across every classroom. Observe classrooms regularly, coaching teachers on curriculum, lesson planning, and classroom management. Ensure classroom environments and materials are maintained to Montessori standards. Support teachers in addressing individual children's developmental and social-emotional needs. Lead parent-teacher conferences and other education-focused family communication. Stay current on Montessori practice, early childhood development, and licensing requirements. 2. Staff Leadership & Development — 25% Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain qualified teachers and staff, in partnership with the Parent Board. Set clear expectations for roles and performance; provide regular coaching, feedback, and evaluations. Build staff schedules, classroom assignments, and coverage plans that maintain required ratios. Address performance and workplace concerns promptly and professionally. Foster a collaborative, respectful staff culture, and model that standard personally. Partner with the Board on significant personnel matters per established HR procedures. 3. School Operations & Administration — 40% Maintain compliance with CA Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing and all applicable regulations. Oversee daily operations — opening/closing, attendance, facilities, supplies, and general readiness. Maintain licensing records, staff files, and child records; coordinate inspections and any corrective actions. Develop and manage the annual budget with the Treasurer; track revenue, expenses, and payroll-related matters. Provide regular financial and operational updates to the Board; prepare reports and recommendations. Oversee vendor relationships, facility maintenance, and purchasing within budget. Support annual and long-term planning, staffing projections, and continuity/succession planning. 4. Parent & Community Engagement — 15% Serve as the primary point of contact for families on operations, classrooms, and student experience. Communicate clearly and consistently via Brightwheel, email, newsletters, and meetings. Address parent concerns and difficult conversations promptly, professionally, and with discretion. Welcome new families and support enrollment, tours, and admissions. Help cultivate a strong sense of community among families, staff, and the Board; represent the school well publicly.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Montessori Education, or a related field — or equivalent education/experience meeting CA licensing requirements. Experience in an early childhood or preschool setting, with demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience. Strong understanding of child development and early childhood education. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Ability to meet all CA licensing requirements, including background checks and CPR/First Aid certification (or obtain within one month of hire). Preferred Montessori credential from an accredited program (or willingness to begin one within a year of hire; tuition assistance available). Experience directing or managing a preschool, Montessori school, or childcare center. Experience with CA Community Care Licensing, staff HR processes, and budgeting/financial management. Experience working with a parent-led or nonprofit Board; familiarity with Brightwheel or similar platforms.

Pay:

$70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Application Question(s): Do you have ability to meet all CA licensing requirements, including background checks and CPR/First Aid certification (or obtain within one month of hire)? Do you have an Associates or Bachelors in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or equivalent? Do you have at least 3 years working in early childhood education?

Work Location:

In person