Assistant Director - New School

The Gardner School; La Grange Park (IL); On-site; USD 44,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Comprehensive benefits

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

The Gardner School is opening a brand-new preschool location in LaGrange Park, Winter 2026. As Assistant Director, you will partner with the Executive School Director to oversee daily operations, schedule and staff coverage, and lead a high-performing team that delivers a nurturing, academically focused environment for young children.

You will build strong relationships with families, conduct school tours, plan family events, and manage communications while supporting teachers in curriculum

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

Leadership

Organization

Communication

Budgets

Licensing knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree

Early Childhood Education preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

It'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 in LaGrange Park, opening in Winter 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 LaGrange Park, 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 $44,080-$55,100 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 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.

The Gardner School provides children with a nurturing start for a successful future with a premier preschool experience for children.

Built on decades of expertise, we promise to provide a school community that is safe, purposeful, and enriching.

This commitment is fulfilled through the efforts of our engaged team members, the growth of thriving children, and the satisfaction of happy families.

Together we provide exceptional care and education differentiated by our people, program, and promise.