Experienced Preschool Director (Play-Based Program)

Experienced Preschool Director (Play-Based Program) Learning Star Preschool - 4.3 Columbia, MO Job Details Full-time $48,000 - $62,000 a year 17 hours ago Benefits Health insurance Paid time off Employee discount Professional development assistance Referral program Qualifications Teamwork Microsoft Excel Operations management Interpersonal skills Staff scheduling Team development Productivity software Classroom Teaching Teaching Full Job Description This is a leadership role for an experienced early childhood professional who is confident guiding both people and program operations. About Us Learning Star is a well-established preschool serving Mid-Missouri for over 14 years. We are a play-based program focused on social-emotional development, strong relationships, and a calm, respectful environment for children and staff. Position Overview We are hiring an Experienced Preschool Director to lead daily operations, support staff, and guide the continued growth of our program. This role combines leadership, team development, and operational oversight within a relationship-centered, play-based environment. Key Responsibilities Provide strategic leadership aligned with play-based, social-emotional learning Oversee daily operations including enrollment, staffing, scheduling, and program consistency Lead, mentor, and evaluate a team of 20-25 staff Ensure clear, professional communication with staff and families Build strong relationships to support enrollment, retention, and community trust Oversee curriculum implementation to ensure engaging, developmentally appropriate learning Ensure accurate documentation of children's development Maintain compliance with licensing, safety standards, and program policies Manage staff schedules and ensure appropriate classroom coverage Support program growth through community outreach and relationship-building Step into classrooms as needed to support ratios and daily flow What We're Looking For Calm, steady, and professional under pressure Strong communicator with a respectful, team-centered approach Growth-minded and open to feedback Reliable, solution-oriented, and takes initiative Business-minded with awareness of program growth and sustainability Aligned with play-based learning and social-emotional development Qualifications 2+ years management experience preferred One of the following required: 120+ college credit hours with 24 hours in Education (or related field) OR 4 years teaching experience with 24 hours in Education (or related field) 2+ years teaching experience Experience creating staff schedules Knowledge of child development and licensing standards Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) Able to work 40 hours per week Compensation & Benefits $48,000-$62,000 annually (based on experience) Benefits package Bonus opportunities Supportive, team-oriented environment Opportunities for growth and leadership development Why Join Learning Star A stable, well-respected program with 14+ years of growth A leadership team that values calm, respectful, relationship-centered work A team culture focused on support, professionalism, and continuous growth An opportunity to lead meaningfully, not just manage tasks

Pay:

$48,000.00 - $62,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Referral program Application Question(s): Describe a time you supported a staff member through a challenging situation. What was the situation, and how did you respond? What does a play-based, social-emotional focused classroom look like to you in practice? In a busy preschool day, how do you prioritize when multiple issues need your attention at once? What is prompting your interest in this role, and what are you looking for in your next position?

Location:

Columbia, MO 65203 (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person