Assistant Director - New School

The Gardner School; Andover (MA); On-site; USD 53,200 - 66,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with company match

Childcare tuition discount

Paid holidays

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

The Gardner School in Andover is seeking an Assistant Director to lead a brand-new preschool opening Fall 2026. You’ll partner with the Executive School Director to manage daily operations, plan family events, and support curriculum implementation while upholding state licensing standards.

Ideal candidates bring 1+ year of leadership in licensed child development, 2+ years in licensed childcare, and a proven ability to build relationships with families and staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required (Early Childhood Education or related field preferred).
• Minimum 1 year of verified leadership experience in a licensed child development program.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in licensed childcare or early childhood education.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Executive School Director to oversee daily school operations, scheduling, and staff coverage.
• Build positive relationships with families and ensure strong communication.
• Lead school tours, plan family events, and manage newsletters and community engagement.
• Support teachers in implementing curriculum and licensing standards compliance.
• Manage supplies and budgets to support school goals and operational efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Organization

Communication

Staff scheduling

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

## Assistant Director - New SchoolApplylocations: Andovertime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: JR102597It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing! We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.Are you an experienced, passionate early childhood leader ready to launch and lead a brand-new school community? Join us as the **Assistant Director** at our newest preschool location, **opening in Fall 2026!**At The *Gardner School*, we believe in providing a nurturing, academically focused environment where children thrive—and where leaders like you inspire excellence every day. As the Assistant Director of our newest school, you’ll be at the helm of building a high-performing team, cultivating family partnerships, and bringing our mission and values to life from Day One.As the **Assistant Director** at **The Gardner School of Andover,** you will be part of a caring, fun, dynamic group of professionals that thrive on providing exceptional educational experiences. You will work in an environment that values your contributions and provides you with the resources you need to apply high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs. Your experience and expertise are highly valued, your contributions are recognized, and your professional goals are supported. If you have a desire and passion to make a difference in the lives of children and parents, The Gardner School is the place for you.**What You’ll Do*** Partner with the Executive School Director to oversee daily school operations, scheduling, and staff coverage* Build positive relationships with families, addressing questions and ensuring strong communication* Lead school tours, plan family events, and manage newsletters and community engagement* Support teachers in implementing curriculum and maintaining compliance with all state and local licensing standards* Manage supplies and budgets to support school goals and operational efficiency* Lead with professionalism, positivity, and The Gardner School’s core values every day**What We Offer:*** **Competitive Pay:** The starting salary range for this position is $53,200-$66,500 annually. Actual pay will depend on factors such as relevant experience, skills, and education. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for a quarterly, performance-based bonus.* **Comprehensive Benefits:** Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities* **Career Growth:** Ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement within our growing organization, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.**Minimum Qualifications****Education*** **Bachelor’s degree required** (preferred in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or a related field)* Must meet **state licensing requirements** for Assistant Director qualifications (education and experience)**Experience*** Minimum **1 year of verified leadership experience** in a licensed child development program (required)* Minimum **2 years of experience** in a licensed childcare or early childhood education setting (preferred)* Prior experience as an **Assistant Director, Program Coordinator, or supervisory role** in early childhood education (preferred)**Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities*** Strong **leadership, organization, and communication** skills* Knowledge of **state childcare licensing standards** and early learning best practices* Ability to manage **staff scheduling, budgets, and daily school operations** effectively* Proficiency in **Microsoft Office** and administrative systems* Ability to maintain **confidentiality**, professionalism, and positive relationships with families and staff* Strong **problem-solving and decision-making** skills with consistent, reliable attendance**Physical Requirements*** Ability to **lift and carry children up to 60 lbs*** Ability to operate computers, phones, and standard office/classroom equipment* Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, including **active engagement throughout the school environment********Why You’ll Love The Gardner School*** Beautiful, **state-of-the-art preschool environment*** Supportive leadership team focused on professional growth* **Comprehensive benefits package:** Health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, childcare tuition discount, and paid holidays* Continuous **training and career advancement opportunities***The Gardner School extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual’s age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by law.*