Executive School Director - New School

About the role

Join the founding team as the Executive School Director at our brand-new preschool in Maple Grove, Minnesota, opening in Fall 2026. You’ll lead a high-performing team, cultivate family partnerships, and bring our mission and values to life from day one. This hands-on leadership role drives operational excellence, educational quality, compliance, and community engagement while shaping the school’s success and reputation.

Responsibilities

• Drive enrollment growth by leading tours, follow-ups, and community marketing efforts
• Build strong relationships with families and represent the school in the local community
• Recruit, hire, train, and coach team members to create a positive, high-performing culture
• Lead and support staff development through feedback, observations, and ongoing training
• Oversee daily school operations, including staffing, scheduling, and overall performance
• Manage budgets and resources to ensure financial health and operational efficiency
• Execute enrollment and seasonal plans to maximize capacity and classroom transitions
• Ensure a safe, compliant, and high-quality learning environment
• Maintain strong communication with families and continuously improve the overall experience

Requirements

• Meet Minnesota Rules Child Care Director Licensing Standards for education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree (required); Master’s degree (preferred). Preferred fields: Early Childhood Education, Childhood Development, Education Administration, Business, or related field
• Minimum of two years in licensed childcare with at least one year as a Director or supervising a childcare program, demonstrating team management, operational oversight, and community engagement
• Experience with startup of a childcare center (preferred)
• Strong leadership, financial, organizational, and communication skills
• Proficiency with relevant software, including Microsoft Office
• Demonstrated proficiency in budget management, financial analysis, and resource allocation
• Skilled in optimizing school operations, managing workflows, and maintaining high standards in educational quality and compliance
• Strong understanding of licensing standards
• Ability to problem-solve by assessing situations quickly and developing solutions aligned with school objectives
• Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking) to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports
• Ability to manage time effectively and multitask
• Regular and reliable attendance
• Engages effectively with families, team members, and community partners, fostering trust, collaboration, and customer satisfaction

Physical Demands

• Ability to operate computer, phone, and other office equipment as needed
• Ability to lift and carry children up to 60 pounds
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Childcare tuition discount
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Ongoing training and career growth within a mission-driven organization

Pay

Starting salary range: $58,000–$73,000 annually, based on relevant experience, skills, and education. Eligible for a quarterly, performance-based bonus.