A Preschool or Childcare Director manages and directs programs for very young children. Supervises child care workers and pre-school teachers. Proposes policies, program fees and budgets for approval by a program board or administrative agency or implements policies of a national organization. Meets with parents and staff to discuss the development, learning and behavior of children in the program or center. Orders supplies and monitors maintenance and cleaning at a facility. Ensures that the program or center meets state and federal guidelines.
Little Luminaries Montessori is a new, authentic Montessori school launching in January 2027 in the Greater Nashville area — serving roughly 200 children ages six weeks to six years in a beautiful, purpose-built facility, with the operational excellence of the best programs. As an American Montessori Society (AMS) member school, we are committed to authentic, high-quality Montessori. We are hiring our School Director — our first and most important hire — to start September 1, 2026, or as soon as possible. A relocation stipend is available for the right candidate. Role summary Lead the school's educational vision and day-to-day operations. You will own the culture and high standards that help students and staff succeed, Montessori program fidelity, staff hiring and development, the family experience, licensing, and enrollment. You'll lead a full team of roughly 25 staff — administrative, lead teachers, and assistant teachers — reporting to and partnering closely with the founders to launch and grow the school. Key responsibilities Hire, train, coach, and retain a high-performing teaching team Ensure authentic Montessori implementation across every classroom Set the vision for each classroom's prepared environment — selecting age-appropriate furniture and Montessori materials for every age group (infant, toddler, and primary) Support, mentor, and evaluate teachers and staff, and lead ongoing professional development Own enrollment, family relationships, tours, and community presence Manage daily operations, schedules, ratios, and health & safety Steward the annual budget, financial oversight, and vendor relationships with the owners Lead Tennessee DHS licensing and ongoing compliance Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred Montessori credential (AMS / AMI / MACTE) and/or Montessori school leadership experience strongly preferred 3+ years of leadership or school-management experience preferred, including hiring, staff development, and budget oversight Experience leading a large school or child care center (150+ children) preferred What we offer Competitive salary and a full benefits package (health insurance, vision, dental, 401(k), and PTO) Paid professional development and Montessori credentialing support A beautiful, brand-new, purpose-built facility A founder-led, mission-driven, supportive culture Growth opportunities as we open additional classrooms and schools Relocation stipend available for the right candidate. Little Luminaries LLC is an equal-opportunity employer.
