Director of Early Childhood Education

We are looking for an innovative Director of Early Childhood Education for The Philip J. Solondz Preschool at Temple Beth Shalom, in Livingston, New Jersey. Temple Beth Shalom is a fully egalitarian, inclusive congregation affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, with a commitment to Jewish education and outreach to the community. Our congregation is thriving and active, and the preschool is housed in our dedicated childhood learning center with secure indoor and outdoor facilities.

The Director will work in partnership with our rabbi, cantor, educators, and leadership to grow our program, shape curriculum, market to and communicate with potential families in the local Jewish and general community. The Director will oversee a vibrant early childhood program from infant care through Pre-K. The successful candidate will bring great energy and creativity to the position and work with children and our families to broaden the appeal of the preschool.

Responsibilities:

Manage day-to-day activities in the infant-toddler care and preschool programs; support classrooms and teachers; nurture children’s curiosity

Increase enrollment by developing innovative marketing, programs, and curriculum that appeal to the Livingston community and surrounding areas

Recruit, interview, hire, and supervise staff

Demonstrate respect, openness, understanding, and commitment to children with diverse backgrounds, interests, and abilities

Plan and organize daily and yearly curriculum and calendars for the primary groups in Jewish Studies, General Studies, and Hebrew that are in line with progressive educational approaches

Skills required

Partner with the rabbi and cantor to infuse Jewish values, holidays, and cultural experiences into the program

Promote the inherent dignity and equality of every human being and inspire children to become compassionate citizens

Cultivate in children a love of Torah and Jewish tradition (customs, Shabbat and holidays, food, and culture)

Promote a positive connection to the Jewish people and the State of Israel

Participate in continued professional development and keep up to date on early childhood research and trends

Implement appropriate technology for use in classrooms, remote learning, and for communications with families and reporting systems

Ensure compliance with New Jersey state licensing and reporting requirements

Work with synagogue lay leaders and staff to develop the annual budget

Understand the needs and desires of preschool parents and promote a balance between program goals and specific parent goals

Promote a positive work environment and support staff professional development

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required. Master’s Degree preferred (without a master’s degree, must have adequate prior experience to satisfy NJ requirements)

Supervisory experience in a similar position

Knowledge of and ability to implement New Jersey standards for licensed child care centers

Proven ability to lead professional development efforts and support educators within a teaching and learning environment

Required Qualifications

Dynamic leadership, motivated to inspire and be inclusive

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to communicate with parents, children, staff, and leadership in a confident and calm manner

Strong computer skills

Musical background preferred but not required

Salary: $85,000-$90,000