Director of Early Childhood Programs

Congressional School seeks an innovative and collaborative Director of Early Childhood and Primary School for the 2027–2028 academic year. Reporting to the Head of School, the Director provides strategic vision and administrative oversight for Early Childhood Learning Programs (ages six weeks to two years old) and primary grades (Preschool and Junior Kindergarten). The Director leads division faculty and staff, oversees daily operations, maintains behavioral and licensing standards, and fosters a vibrant, inclusive learning environment.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment, bringing strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills. They exercise sound judgment across diverse situations, balance competing priorities effectively, and take initiative on key projects from conception through implementation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Lead the Early Childhood Learning division through the supervision, management, and coordination of all academic, operational, and personnel functions.
2. Provide coaching and support for Early Childhood faculty regarding curriculum and pedagogy.
3. Oversee the academic, social and emotional well-being of Early Childhood students in coordination with faculty.
4. Oversee reporting of student progress in coordination with the Registrar.
5. Work with the classroom teachers and other faculty to ensure that appropriate curricular objectives are established.
6. Support the professional growth of faculty through the planning and facilitation of orientation for new teachers, professional development days, faculty meetings, and additional opportunities.
7. Provide timely and effective supervision of teachers ensuring they receive regular feedback about their teaching and overall performance.
8. Observe classes, confer with faculty regularly regarding these observations, and complete written observation reports and evaluations according to school guidelines.
9. Create open channels of communication with parents regarding school program and events and individual academic and social and emotional student progress and concerns.
10. Serve on the school leadership team, participating actively in strategic planning and regular leadership meetings with the Head of School.
11. Work closely with the Director of Admissions to support recruitment efforts and the admissions process.
12. Work with the Early Childhood Coordinator to ensure compliance with state licensing regulations and standards, as well as accreditation standards such as NAEYC and VAIS.
13. Coordinate with the Director of Finance and Operations to ensure prudent budget expenses for all purchases related to programs.
14. Ensure that books and supplies are available to support programs and helps to assess and revitalize curricular materials as necessary.
15. Partner with school leadership to recruit, hire, develop, and retain exceptional faculty and staff.
16. Maintain a visible presence across campus, resolve operational or programmatic issues proactively, and keep the Head of School informed of division activities.
17. Embrace and promote Congressional School's mission, vision, and values.
18. Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Head of School.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education; Master's Degree in Education is strongly preferred
• Minimum of five years' teaching experience at the early childhood grade levels.
• Supervisory/Administrative experience as department head or higher administrative position preferred.
• Ability to lead and inspire a dedicated, professional faculty toward instructional excellence within a rigorous educational program.
• Ability to multi-task projects and duties in a collaborative working environment.
• Highly skilled in the following areas: communication, interpersonal/relationship building, analytical/strategic thinking, organization, time management, delegation, problem-solving, conflict management and decision-making.
• A role model of high standards of professional behavior and strong leadership.
• A strong sense of ethics and integrity.