Director

About Us: Merri-Loo Community Preschool is a cherished nonprofit institution that has been a cornerstone of the Goffstown community and neighboring towns for nearly 60 years. As a cooperative preschool, we are supported by a dedicated community of parents who actively participate and contribute to the school's daily operations and success. We are dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education in a nurturing and supportive environment. 

Position Overview: We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director to lead our beloved preschool. This pivotal role involves overseeing the comprehensive management of our organization, including operational oversight, staff leadership, and community engagement. The Director will play a crucial role in ensuring the continued success and growth of Merri-Loo Community Preschool. 

Position Type: Part-Time, 30 Hours/Week
Compensation: $28-31 per hour or with opportunities for bonus structure based on performance and enrollment. Salaried contracts offered.

Benefits: Paid school vacation days and Federal Holidays. Professional development opportunities provided.

Hours and Job Requirements: Serve as the co-lead teacher in either the Nursery classroom Tuesday & Thursday 8:00am- 1:00pm or the Pre-K classroom Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:00am-2:00pm. The school calendar runs from September to May, with a potential extension to align with the Goffstown School District calendar for 2025-2026 school year. Summer hours are also required for classroom setup and breakdown, as well as for supporting three weeks of summer camp.

Contract Duration: Annual contracts with an immediate start date.
$1000 sign on bonus available to qualifying candidates

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure Compliance with State Licensing Regulations and Maintain Necessary Certifications
  • Oversee adherence to state licensing requirements, ensuring that all practices, policies, and procedures meet or exceed state standards.
  • Keep all necessary certifications up to date for the school and staff, including safety and first aid certifications.
  • Conduct regular reviews of compliance documentation and update policies as needed to align with state regulations.
• Lead Teaching Role in Classroom
  • Serve as the lead teacher in either the nursery classroom two days a week (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM) or the Pre-K classroom three days a week (8:30 AM – 1:30 PM) and act as an assistant teacher otherwise.
  • Plan and implement age-appropriate, engaging, and developmentally appropriate curriculum for the classroom.
  • Create a nurturing and safe learning environment that fosters the physical, emotional, and intellectual growth of children.
  • Conduct regular assessments of student progress and communicate findings to parents.
• Administrative Duties as Director
  • Work in the office to perform administrative duties, including maintaining records, managing communications, and supporting the daily operations of the school.
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors on the development and implementation of school policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives.
  • Aid in managing the school's budget in collaboration with the Treasurer to ensure proper use of finances, and resource allocation in consultation.
• Aid in Grant Writing and Fundraising Initiatives:
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors and staff to identify funding opportunities, including grants and other financial support mechanisms.
  • Contribute to the preparation and writing of grant proposals, ensuring alignment with the school’s mission, goals, and compliance requirements.
• Collaboration with Board of Directors and Staff
  • Work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure alignment on the school’s mission, policies, and procedures.
  • Facilitate regular staff meetings to discuss curriculum, student progress, and school operations.
  • Attend Monthly Board of Director meetings to offer valuable insight from the teachers perspective.
  • Assist in the development of school-wide initiatives and programs that support the school’s mission and goals.
• Mentor and Support Teaching Staff
  • Provide ongoing mentorship and support to teaching staff, guiding them in curriculum development and professional growth.
  • Conduct regular observations and evaluations of teaching staff, offering constructive feedback and support.
  • Identify and facilitate professional development opportunities for staff to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Interviewing Prospective Employees
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors to interview and select prospective employees who align with the school’s values and goals.
  • Participate in the hiring process by assessing candidates' qualifications, experience, and fit with the school’s culture.
  • Onboard new staff members, ensuring they are familiar with school policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Family Communication and Website/Social Media Management
  • Maintain regular communication with families regarding school updates, events, and student progress.
  • Manage and update the school’s website and social media platforms to ensure timely and accurate information is shared with the community.
  • Develop newsletters, emails, and other communication materials to keep families informed and engaged in their children’s education.
• Lead Tours and Open Houses
  • Organize and lead tours and open houses for prospective new students and their families, showcasing the school’s programs and facilities.
  • Provide prospective families with detailed information about the school’s philosophy, curriculum, and community.
  • Follow up with prospective families in conjunction with the Registrar Board Member to address any questions or concerns and support them in the enrollment process.
• Brightwheel Program Management
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors to manage the Brightwheel program, ensuring it is up to date with accurate information regarding students, schedules, and communications. Brightwheel is our student management system and training will be provided for the use of this program. 
• Attendance at Meetings, Fundraisers, and Community Events
  • Attend all staff meetings, Board of Director meetings, and other mandatory school-related meetings to stay informed and engaged with school operations.
  • Participate in school fundraisers and community events, representing the school and fostering community connections.
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors and staff to plan and execute successful events that support the school’s mission and goals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Fully meets the State of New Hampshire Bureau of Childcare Licensing requirements for a Center Director.
• In-depth knowledge of New Hampshire state licensing regulations and procedures, with a proven track record of ensuring compliance.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Demonstrated experience or a solid understanding of nonprofit management, including governance, fundraising, and community engagement.
• Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and manage a diverse team.
• Proven ability in crisis and conflict management, with strong decision-making capabilities in high-pressure situations.
• Significant experience in curriculum planning and development, with a focus on creating engaging, developmentally appropriate educational programs.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with the Board of Directors, teaching staff, and other stakeholders to achieve the school’s goals.
• Proficient in the use of technology, including Google Drive, Google Docs, with the ability to integrate technology into administrative and educational practices.
• Must be open to learning and implementing a student management system, Brightwheel.