Overview
Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Preschool to lead and oversee the daily operations of our early childhood education program. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a passion for early childhood development, and ensure high quality early childhood education within a LCMS Christian framework. This role provides leadership to staff, develops and manages programs and curriculum, oversees enrollment and budgeting, ensures compliance with state licensing and early learning standards, and ensures the preschool aligns with the mission and values of Peace Lutheran Church.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
Be ready and able to share the Gospel and personal faith with children, parents, and staff through words, action and attitude
Follow and apply all laws pertaining to Minnesota Department of Human Resources Rule 3
Hire, supervise, mentor, and evaluate preschool staff (teachers, assistants, aides)
Provide professional development and ensure ongoing training in early childhood education, Christ-centered pedagogy, and relevant topics (such as Conscious Discipline, social-emotional learning)
Lead regular team meetings, staff retreats, and support staff well-being and retention
Program & Curriculum
Oversee curriculum design and implementation that aligns with Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress, the school’s Christian philosophy, and best practices in early childhood education
Ensure that spiritual formation is integrated into daily activities (Bible stories, songs, prayer, etc.) in coordination with church resources
Maintain and oversee social-emotional curriculum and supports (e.g., Conscious Discipline, Second Step or similar)
Operations & Compliance
Ensure compliance with state licensing rules & health & safety regulations
Maintain high standards for facility cleanliness, safety, and child supervision
Oversee scheduling of classes, extended care, wrap around care, enrollment, and staffing to meet program needs
Continue to meet standards for a four star parent aware rating
Budgeting & Finance
Develop, manage, and monitor the preschool budget
Make recommendations for tuition rates, staffing, supplies, equipment, etc.
Oversee purchasing of materials, supplies, ensuring proper maintenance of equipment
Family & Community Relations
Serve as primary contact for parents, handle enrollment, orientation, parent communication, and feedback
Maintain positive relationships with Peace Lutheran Church, ensuring mission alignment and partnership in ministry & outreach
Represent the preschool in the community; attend meetings, promote the program
Assessment & Continuous Improvement
Monitor student progress and outcomes; ensure assessments are aligned to the early learning standards
Use feedback from families, staff, and external reviews to guide continuous improvement
Stay current with best practices, early childhood research, licensing & accreditation requirements
Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
Meet State Licensing requirements to meet the director qualifications.
Experience in leading or managing early childhood education programs (supervisory experience preferred)
Familiarity with state early learning standards, licensing requirements, and best practices in preschool education
Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Commitment to the LCMS Christian faith and to the mission, values, and philosophy of Peace Lutheran Preschool/Church
This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on young children’s lives while leading a dedicated team committed to excellence in early childhood education.
Please send cover letter and resume to peacepreschoolfaribault@gmail.com
About Peace Lutheran Preschool
About Peace Lutheran Preschool
We are a Christ-centered school that strives to develop the whole child through a variety of play-centered learning experiences. Through our program, children will leave Knowing, Growing, and Sharing in Christ. In addition, Peace Lutheran Preschool is a Licensed Program that has received the highest possible Parent AWARE rating (4 Stars!)
Our Philosophy
Our program is built around the concept that children are born ready to learn. As caregivers, we strive to create a learning environment that is safe, stimulating, and encouraging. Young children are capable and competent.
- Early childhood education is an integral part of congregational mission and ministry
- Learning is sequential, building on prior understandings and experiences
- Learning proceeds at different rates for each child; children will show a range of skills and competencies within any area of development
- Learning in each area is interconnected. Young children learn best through play, interactions with others, and active exploration of their environment
- Learning is embedded in a culture. Children learn best when their learning activities are rooted in a familiar cultural context
- Learning begins first with the family, continues in early care and education settings, and depends on parent involvement and caregiver guidance
- All children have the potential to achieve the Minnesota Early Learning Standards with appropriate support and instruction.
Our Core Values
Each child is a unique and special child of God and we recognize each child for their individual abilities and strengths.
It is important to nurture the development of the whole child so that each child grows spiritually, academically, physically, socially, and emotionally.
Children learn best through play, exploration, and discovery
We attempt to create a warm, accepting, loving, and Christ-centered environment where activities are child-directed and well-balanced, as well as developmentally and age-appropriate.
