Preschool Director

The Open Center for Children, founded in 1972, is a small, independent Early Education and Care program located near Tufts University and convenient to public transportation. Serving up to 29 children ages 2.3 through 5 years, we foster social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development through a play-based curriculum. We provide hands-on materials for exploration and creativity, helping children develop tools for living in a diverse world by resolving conflicts peacefully and challenging stereotypes. Our teaching staff is highly educated, experienced, and dedicated.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Early Education Director to lead our school. Ideal applicants will have a love of children, be passionate and enthusiastic about leading a motivated group of Early Childhood educators, and be compassionate and collaborative in working with families. They will be grounded in our play-based philosophy and take a leadership role in promoting the mission and values of the school. This is a full-time, salaried position available now, with preference given to candidates who apply by August 7th. While flexible on the starting date, we aim to fill the role as soon as possible in the fall of 2026.

In addition to the full-time position, we are considering candidates interested in serving in an interim director role from late August through November. This role involves being the on-site director of the center and sharing administrative responsibilities with the assistant director. Candidates may explore this interim role as a pathway to the full-time position or apply for the interim role only.

Responsibilities

• Staff Leadership & Development: Oversee Center staff, including scheduling, professional development, and recruiting and hiring as needed; supervise and support staff in implementing curricular and other program activities.
• School Community & Culture: Communicate and partner with families to establish understanding of Center policies and build community and engagement, including managing enrollment and retention.
• Operations & Financial Stewardship: Manage the day-to-day operations of the Center, ensuring a caring and safe environment; partner with the parent advisory board to set and manage a responsible budget that supports the future success of the Center.

Requirements

• Massachusetts E.E.C. Director I Certification required; Director II Certification preferred.
• Degree from an accredited college or university in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of teaching experience at the early childhood level within a play-based curriculum and/or 3 years of supervisory experience at an early childhood program.
• Experience and demonstrated sensitivity in working with groups and/or families from diverse cultural, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.

Benefits

• Annual salary of $78,000–$88,000 based on experience and qualifications.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k with 5% employer contribution.
• 3 weeks of vacation, 12 paid sick days, and 12 major holidays.
• Reimbursement for professional development.

Work Location: In person