Early Childhood Director
Full Time • Irvine
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Training & development
- Tuition assistance
Please submit a resume, a letter demonstrating your interest in the position, and the names and contact information for two references.
Position Summary
ARK Academy is seeking a talented, caring, and passionate Early Childhood Director to join our team for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Director is responsible for leading and overseeing the Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten program, ensuring that every student experiences a high-quality classroom environment that fosters strong character development and supports their holistic growth. The Director is actively engaged in instruction, while guiding staff, curriculum, and program development. The Director works closely with the Principal to uphold the school’s mission, maintain regulatory compliance, and foster strong relationships with families and staff.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Classroom Leadership
- Serve as both an instructional leader and active classroom teacher, dedicating a significant portion of time to teaching and student engagement.
- Model best practices in early childhood education, including classroom management, instructional strategies, and developmentally appropriate teaching.
- Support and reinforce a school culture grounded in strong character, compassion, and respect.
- Collaborate with teachers to design and refine developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning plans that support language development, early literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth, while meeting regulatory requirements and family expectations.
- Monitor and assess program effectiveness and make ongoing improvements.
Staff Leadership & Development
- Recruit, interview, and onboard early childhood staff.
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
- Conduct regular staff meetings and professional development sessions.
- Foster a collaborative, supportive, and growth-oriented team culture.
- Ensure staff adhere to school policies, procedures, and professional expectations.
Family Engagement
- Build strong relationships with families through open, consistent communication.
- Meet with parents to discuss student development, progress, and any academic or behavioral concerns.
- Provide guidance and support to families on early childhood development and learning strategies.
- Organize family engagement opportunities and events.
Operations & Facilities Management
- Ensure the early childhood facility is safe, well-maintained, and fully stocked.
- Oversee classroom organization and learning environments to ensure they are engaging and developmentally appropriate.
Administration & Compliance
- Assist the Principal in managing the early childhood program budget and ensure effective use of resources.
- Maintain accurate records, including licensing, attendance, and student documentation.
- Support enrollment efforts and program growth as needed.
- Ensure the program meets all state licensing requirements and maintains full compliance.
- Lead or support efforts toward program accreditation, including preparation, documentation, and continuous quality improvement.
Professional Responsibilities
- Stay current on best practices, regulations, and trends in early childhood education.
- Participate in faculty meetings, school events, and collaborative planning as required.
- Uphold and reflect the mission, philosophy, and core values of ARK Academy in all professional interactions.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
- Minimum of 12 semester units in Early Childhood Education/Child Development.
- At least 3 semester units in administration, leadership, or staff relations.
- Valid Child Development Program Director Permit (or eligibility to obtain).
- Minimum of 3–5 years years of teaching experience in a licensed child care center.
- At least 1 year of leadership experience (e.g., Site Supervisor, Assistant Director, or equivalent).
- Strong knowledge of licensing requirements through the California Department of Social Services.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Educational Leadership.
- Experience opening or expanding a school program.
Regulatory Requirements:
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- Fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice.
- Health screening, including proof of Tuberculosis clearance.
- Proof of eligibility to work in the United States.
Compensation: $65,000.00 - $73,000.00 per year
ARK Academy is a non-profit STEAM-integrated private school serving early childhood and elementary students in Irvine, California. Slated to open in Fall 2026, ARK Academy’s mission is to foster God-conscious lifelong learners who strive for excellence in character, thought, and action. Our integrated curriculum and pedagogy are rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an, the Prophet, and his Household. Our vision is to revive an interdisciplinary Islamic scholarly culture that will advance our community.
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