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Preschool Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Preschool Program Manager Right At School provides local school districts before and after school ... A) Gateways to Opportunity Level I Illinois Director Credential; or * B) 3 semester hours or 4.5 ...

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Preschool Case-file Agent Reports to ... Program Director, Administrator FLSA Status: Non-exempt General Summary Under the direction of an ...

Preschool Director

Belmont, MA · On-site

$56K - $58K/yr

They develop and manage program specific budgets with support from the Statewide Director of Nature Preschool and the Senior Director of Education and Engagement. Application Instructions Please ...

... program? We are seeking an experienced Preschool Director to lead one of our premier early ... childhood education centers. This is not just a job--it's an opportunity to shape a school culture ...

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Preschool Program Director information

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$27K

$54.6K

$77K

How much do preschool program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for preschool program director in the United States is $54,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Preschool Program Director do?

A Preschool Program Director oversees the daily operations of a preschool or early childhood education program. Their responsibilities include managing staff, developing curriculum, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment for children. They also communicate with parents, handle budgeting, and coordinate enrollment processes. The director plays a crucial leadership role in setting the tone and quality standards for the entire program.

What are the typical challenges a Preschool Program Director faces in balancing administrative duties with staff support?

Preschool Program Directors often juggle a variety of responsibilities, including curriculum planning, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and staff management. One common challenge is finding the right balance between administrative tasks and providing hands-on guidance and support to teachers and staff. Effective directors prioritize open communication, delegate tasks when possible, and establish efficient processes to ensure both the program's daily operations and team development needs are met. This balance is essential for fostering a positive learning environment and maintaining high program standards.

What is the difference between Preschool Program Director vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectPreschool Program DirectorPreschool Teacher
CredentialsEarly childhood education certification, management experienceChild development or early childhood education certification
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office, overseeing programsClassroom setting with children
ResponsibilitiesProgram planning, staff supervision, complianceTeaching children, implementing curriculum

The Preschool Program Director focuses on managing the overall program, staff, and compliance, while the Preschool Teacher directly educates and cares for children. Both roles require early childhood credentials, but the director's role is more administrative and supervisory, whereas the teacher's role is classroom-focused.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preschool Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preschool Program Director, you need a background in early childhood education, program management experience, and often a relevant bachelor's degree or higher. Familiarity with licensing regulations, curriculum development software, and child assessment tools is essential. Outstanding leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster a positive environment for staff, children, and families. These abilities ensure the preschool operates smoothly, meets educational standards, and provides a safe, nurturing space for young learners.
More about Preschool Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Preschool Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Preschool Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Preschool Program jobs? The most popular types of Preschool Program jobs are:
What states have the most Preschool Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Preschool Program Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Preschool Program Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,638 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Preschool Program Manager

Preschool Program Manager

Right At School

Chicago, IL • On-site

$28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Right At School rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 75 rated education support services


Job description

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:

John M Palmer Elementary School - 5051 N Kenneth Ave, Chicago, IL 60630

Oscar F Mayer School - 2250 N Clifton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Mark T. Skinner West Elementary School - 1260 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60607


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.



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