Preschool Director: Nature-Based Learning Leader

Brightstars; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

BrightStars in Rhode Island is seeking a Preschool Director for Roger Williams Park Zoo’s nature-based preschool program. The role begins part-time (20 hours/week) in Oct 2026 and transitions to full-time on Jan 1, 2027, with the open date set for Aug/Sep 2027.

The director will oversee development, licensing, enrollment and program quality, reporting to zoo leadership. The candidate will lead staff, ensure safety and compliance, design curriculum, engage families, manage budgets and coordinate

Qualifications

• Leadership and staff management experience in childcare or education settings.
• Health, safety and regulatory compliance knowledge for early childhood programs.
• Curriculum development and classroom planning aligned with standards.
• Family and community engagement strategies.
• Budgeting and program operations coordination.
• Licensing, accreditation and program assessment familiarity.
• Staff training, supervision and performance management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise program staff, including hiring, training and evaluation.
• Ensure health and safety of students, staff and volunteers and maintain licenses.
• Develop and implement the program curriculum and classroom setup.
• Engage families and community partners; manage handbooks and policies.
• Oversee budgets, marketing cooperation and enrollment planning.
• Pursue scholarships and funding opportunities for students from low-income families.
• Plan long-term quality improvement and program growth, including Bright Stars alignment.

Job description

BrightStars in Rhode Island is seeking a Preschool Director for Roger Williams Park Zoo’s nature-based preschool program. The role begins part-time (20 hours/week) in Oct 2026 and transitions to full-time on Jan 1, 2027, with the open date set for Aug/Sep 2027.

The director will oversee development, licensing, enrollment and program quality, reporting to zoo leadership. The candidate will lead staff, ensure safety and compliance, design curriculum, engage families, manage budgets and coordinate