Preschool Program Manager

Right At School; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 23,419 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness benefits

Pet health discounts

Physical wellness programs

Disability insurance

401(k) with company match

Legal/Identity protection

Job summary

Right At School is seeking a Preschool Program Manager to lead before- and after-school programs at multiple Chicago-area schools. The role focuses on safety, engagement, and partnership with families and schools.

The ideal candidate has experience with childcare, strong communication, and the ability to model professional standards. Must meet education requirements and obtain necessary certifications; dedicated to creating a positive learning environment.

Qualifications

• 21+ years of age.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum associate degree in child development/early childhood education, or 64 semester hours with related coursework and one of: Gateways Level I Illinois Director Credential; or college credit in child care administration/leadership; or credential-approved training.
• First Aid and CPR in person (ability to obtain within 30 days).
• Cleared tuberculosis test (ability to obtain within 30 days).

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety and joy, upholding program standards and licensing requirements.
• Support and report on safety protocols for participant well-being.
• Communicate effectively with families, partners, peers, and children; respond to inquiries during program hours.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and compliance with company policy (name-to-face procedures).
• Deliver daily activities and curriculum to create a safe, engaging environment.

Skills

Safety awareness

Communication

Documentation

Team collaboration

Google tools

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree in child development or early childhood education

64 semester hours with related coursework and credential options

Tools

Google Workspace

Job description

Right At School - a place to be a kid! Preschool Program Manager

Right At School provides local school districts before and after school extended day programs with a focus on disguised learning activities and daily enrichment dedicated to the success of all students.

Right At School's mission emphasizes a commitment to inspire a love of learning, support schools, and give families peace of mind. We do this by building a team of mission-driven individuals who are passionate about fostering a love of learning and creating safe, engaging experiences for children. Our vision is to bring exceptional, affordable programs to as many students, families, and schools as possible while providing a safe environment for children to explore and grow.

Preschool Program Manager Pay Rate: Up to $28.00/hr (based on education and experience). Program Hours: Monday through Friday, estimated 30-40 hours weekly. The exact schedule and hours are based on the business need.

Available Locations:

• Lyman A Budlong Public School, 2701 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
• John M Palmer Elementary School, 5051 N Kenneth Ave, Chicago, IL 60630
• Oscar F Mayer School, 2250 N Clifton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

You’ll drive the mission by:

• Safety & Joy: Exhibits role model qualities ensuring safety and joy standards are met by supporting a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities to a team of staff members. Supports operational efficiency by keeping site documents and licensing standards up to date. Implement attendance protocols, behavior policies, safety procedures, and ensure program tasks are completed effectively. Fostering respectful relationships among team members to address any challenges or issues promptly to maintain team cohesion and productivity.
• Safety Assurance: Consistently support and report on safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all participants.
• Effective Communication: Engage meaningfully with families, client partners, peers, and children to support effective communication and relationship building. Respond promptly to emails, text messages, and inquiries during program hours to ensure transparency and trust. Communicate and collaborate regularly with the Area Manager to support outlined program goals and assist in implementing changes or processes as guided.
• Documentation and Compliance: Maintain accurate records for student check‑ins and check‑outs. Ensure "name to face" attendance procedures are completed per company policy.
• Daily Routine: Implement daily activities, fitness fun, and curriculum while providing a safe and engaging environment.

Requirements:

• 21+ years of age
• A high school diploma or equivalency certificate (GED)
• A minimum of an associate degree from an accredited college or university in child development or early childhood education, or
• The equivalent (defined as 64 semester hours in any discipline, with a minimum of 21 semester hours from an accredited college or university in courses related to child development, early childhood education or early childhood special education) and one of the following:
  • A) Gateways to Opportunity Level I Illinois Director Credential; or
  • B) 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours of college credit in child care administration, leadership, or management; or
  • C) 3 points of credential‑approved training in child care administration, leadership, or management.
• First Aid and CPR in person (ability to obtain within 30 days of employment)
• Cleared tuberculosis test (ability to obtain within 30 days of employment)

All candidates will be required to provide proof of the previously listed qualifications to verify eligibility for this position.

Ideal Candidates will have the following:

• Experience with working amongst competing priorities and delivering quality service to all stakeholders
• Experience working with children and knowledge of unique and special needs
• Coursework or training in child development and/or related field
• Communication skills; oral, written, and visual with adults and children
• Ability to model professional standards when dealing with students, parents, staff, and community
• Familiarity with Google technology software or willingness to learn

Benefits Offered with Right At School:

• Health & Wellness: Medical/Virtual Care, Dental and Vision Insurance Plans
• Pet Health: Pet discount programs and pet insurance
• Physical Wellness: Supplemental Insurance (e.g. ate any potential risks within the program environment.
• Short & Long Term Disability
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) with Company match & free financial coaching
• Protection & Support: Legal service, identity theft, and Transit/parking savings plans, Employee Assistance Program
• Childcare: Free or discounted enrollment in our before/after school programs is offered to Right At School team members within participating facilities
• Additional Perks: Free NAA Professional Membership, TicketsAtWork Perks Program, and Cell phone discounts

*All benefits and perks available, have their own eligibility criteria that must be met.

Right At School is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.