Preschool Director

LIFESPAN MONTESSORI; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

PTO

Discounted childcare

Voluntary insurance plans

401(k)

Leadership development opportunities

Job summary

Life Span is seeking a Director to lead operations, enrollment, and staff development at our Athens, GA location. You will ensure a safe, compliant, high-quality environment for children and families while guiding a collaborative leadership team.

You will drive enrollment, coach staff, and maintain licensing and safety standards, while shaping a strong school culture and strong community partnerships. A relevant degree and leadership background in early childhood are required.

Qualifications

• Must meet state director qualifications and credentialing requirements.
• Pass background checks and ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Lead school operations to create a safe, nurturing, high-quality environment for children and staff.
• Set vision for the school and build a positive, student-centered culture.
• Drive enrollment and retention through family relationships and community outreach.
• Hire, coach, and develop your team to maintain a high-performing staff.
• Ensure licensing, health, and safety compliance and a secure facility.
• Oversee curriculum implementation and budget management to drive performance.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Communication

Organization

Problem solving

Safety focus

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in ECE/Child Development/Education

Job description

Lifespan Montessori is an established, state licensed center that is committed to investing in our staff and developing a caring, friendly community of educators and learners. It is our mission to grow independent and confident, compassionate individuals. Our dedication to creating a stimulating and enriching environment for students and teachers alike makes us an amazing place to work!

Life Span –Director

Where learning begins, confidence grows, and futures are shaped every day.

WHO WE ARE

Life Span is part of a growing network of early childhood education schools committed to creating safe, engaging, and inspiring environments where children thrive.

We believe early childhood education is where everything begins– firststeps, first friendships, and the foundation for a lifetime of learning.We schools are communities where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is nurtured, and every child is valued.

Our leaders, teachers, and support staff are at the heart of that experience.

WHY JOIN US

Choosing where you lead matters, and here, your leadership has purpose.

You’llhave the autonomy to lead your school while being supported by a broader network of resources andpartnership. As part of a collaborative leadership team,you’llbe empowered to make decisions, build your team, and create a strong school environment.

We invest in our leaders through mentorship, collaboration, and development opportunities,so you can continue to grow your leadership and your career.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Principal,you’llbe responsible forthe overall success of your school,leading operations, developing your team, and driving enrollment and performance.You’llensure a safe, compliant environment while delivering high-quality experience for children, families, and staff.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead all aspects of school operations to create a safe, nurturing, and high-quality environment for children and staff
• Set the vision for your school and build a positive, student-centered culture aligned with organizational standards
• Drive enrollment and retention through strong family relationships, community engagement, and local outreach
• Hire, coach, and develop your team to build a high-performing, engaged staff
• Ensure full compliance with licensing, health, and safety requirements whilemaintaininga well-run, secure facility
• Oversee curriculum implementation,monitorstudent outcomes, and manage resources and budget to drive strong school performance

Each day is an opportunity to lead your team, partner with families, and shape a positive school experience.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We'reseekingstrong, people-focused leaders who are passionate about early childhood education and developing high-performing teams.

You’llbe a great fit if you:

• Lead with integrity, accountability, and a strong commitment to keeping children safe
• Build strong, trusting relationships with staff, families, and community partners
• Prioritize a safe, secure, and nurturing environment where children can learn and thrive
• Are organized and able to manage multiple priorities with confidence and clarity
• Create a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team culture
• Take a proactive, solution-oriented, and adaptable approach in a dynamic environment

Qualifications

• Associate’sorBachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education(ECE), Child Development, Education, or a related field OR combination of equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum 3–5 years of leadership experience in early childhood education, school administration, or a similar operational setting.
• Previousteaching experience in early childhood education preferred, withdemonstratedprogression into leadership roles.
• Deep understanding of state licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and compliance requirements.
• Must meet all state-specific Director qualifications and credentialing requirements.
• Must meet all state-specific education, certification (including CPR/First Aid, whererequired), licensing, and regulatory requirements, including the ability to pass a background check and complete ongoing professional development.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with families, staff, and the community.

WHATYOU'LL GET

• Competitive pay ($50,000+ based on experience and location)
• Paid time off (PTO)and holiday pay
• Discounted childcare
• Optiontopurchasevarious voluntary insurance plans
• 401(k) options
• Ongoing leadership development and career growth opportunities