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.
We are seeking an experienced Early Childhood Development Director to lead the launch and ongoing operation of a new childcare center in Newport News, Virginia. This is an exciting opportunity for an accomplished early childhood professional who has successfully helped establish a licensed childcare program and is passionate about creating a safe, high-quality learning environment for children and families. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with extensive knowledge of Virginia childcare licensing regulations, program development, staff leadership, and daily center operations. Responsibilities Lead the startup and opening of a new childcare center from concept to successful operation. Navigate the licensing process with Virginia Social Services and ensure compliance with all applicable state regulations. Coordinate city zoning, occupancy requirements, permits, inspections, and opening timelines. Develop and implement all Policies and Procedures (P&P) manuals, employee handbooks, parent handbooks, and operational documentation. Recruit, hire, train, and supervise teachers and support staff. Develop curriculum and classroom standards appropriate for preschool and school-age children. Establish enrollment procedures, family communication protocols, and daily operating systems. Oversee budgeting, scheduling, staffing, compliance, safety, and quality assurance. Maintain licensing standards and prepare for inspections. Build positive relationships with families, community partners, and regulatory agencies. Manage all aspects of daily center operations after opening. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or an equivalent field required (minimum) Meets Virginia Director qualifications for licensed childcare centers. Demonstrated experience opening a childcare center or early childhood program from startup through licensing and successful operation. Thorough knowledge of Virginia Department of Social Services licensing requirements. Experience working with zoning, occupancy, inspections, permits, and regulatory agencies. Experience developing Policies & Procedures manuals and operational systems. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. Proven experience recruiting, training, and leading childcare staff. Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining regulatory compliance. Program Information Preschool and school-age children Before-school and after-school care No infant program Full-time leadership position What We're Looking For We're looking for a leader who doesn't just manage a childcare center—they know how to build one. The ideal candidate has successfully guided a center through licensing, hiring, policy development, and opening day, while creating a culture centered on safety, learning, compliance, and exceptional family service. If you have the experience and passion to help launch a premier childcare center in Newport News, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today with your resume and a summary of your experience opening and operating licensed childcare facilities.
