Location: Spokane Valley, WA
Organization Type: Non-Profit Montessori Pre-K
Organization: Spokane Valley Montessori
Reports To: Board of Directors
About Us
Spokane Valley Montessori is a community-driven, non-profit Montessori school dedicated to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and child-centered educational environment for young learners. Our mission is to foster independent, confident, and compassionate children through Montessori philosophy.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Director to lead our non-profit Pre-K school in Spokane Valley, WA. The Director will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the school, ensuring high quality educational experience for children, and managing a dedicated team of educators. Working closely with the Board of Directors, this leader will ensure program excellence, compliance with Washington State DCYF (Department of Children, Youth and Families) qualifications, and financial sustainability while upholding Montessori principles.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Administration
- Provide strategic leadership to ensure a safe, inclusive, and enriching school environment.
- Implement and uphold the school’s mission, vision, and values in alignment with organizational goals.
- Hire, train, and mentor teachers and staff, promoting continuous professional growth.
- Foster a collaborative, supportive culture among educators, families, and the community.
- Conduct staff performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.
- Curriculum and Program Development
- Ensure the Montessori curriculum meets developmental and academic standards.
- Oversee student assessments and adapt programs to support individualized learning.
- Encourage a balanced approach incorporating academic growth, social-emotional learning, and creative play.
- Strengthen parent engagement and communication between home and school.
- Compliance and Safety
- Maintain compliance with all local, state, and federal licensing and regulatory requirements, including Washington State DCYF standards.
- Ensure health, safety, and emergency procedures are effectively implemented.
- Maintain accurate records for attendance, staff certifications, and school policies.
- Ensure adherence to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 110-300 regarding early childhood education program operations.
- Financial Oversight and Fundraising
- Manage school finances, including budgeting, financial planning, and reporting.
- Collaborate with the Board to ensure financial sustainability and resource allocation.
- Lead fundraising initiatives, grant writing, and scholarship programs to expand school resources.
- Community Engagement and Outreach
- Build and maintain strong relationships with families, community partners, and local organizations to support the school’s mission.
- Represent the school in local community events, networking opportunities, and public relations activities.
- Promote the school’s services to prospective families and encourage enrollment.
State of Washington – Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have completed a high school education or equivalent.
- Completion of Washington State STARS (State Training and Accreditation for Childcare Providers) training and registry system requirements.
- A clear background check as required by Washington State law.
- Current First Aid/CPR certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire).
- Food handling preparation license.
- At least 45 college credits in early childhood education for schools licensed for 25+ children.
- Possess an Early Childhood Education (ECE) State Certificate (47 credits) or equivalent or have a plan to meet this requirement within the timeframe specified by DCYF (dcyf.wa.gov).
- Experience working with children of the same age group as the center serves.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- Minimum 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Knowledge of Montessori education principles (Montessori certification preferred).
- Strong interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills.
- Experience with non-profit management, budgeting, and fundraising.
- Understanding of state and federal early childhood education regulations.
- Ability to strategically manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
Skills
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, parents, and the community.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and growth.
- Knowledge of local community resources and agencies related to early childhood education.
- Familiarity with accreditation processes and quality improvement initiatives.
- Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) are a plus.
Why Join Us?
- Make a meaningful impact in early childhood education and the Spokane Valley community.
- Work in a supportive, collaborative environment focused on Montessori excellence.
- Grow professionally through leadership development and training opportunities.
- Make a difference in children's lives by fostering independence and a love of learning.
Compensation
- Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications ($60,000-$85,000 annually).
- Benefits: Medical, dental, and retirement plans.
- Leave and Training: Paid time off and professional development opportunities.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and at least two professional references to the email/link provided on the www.spokanevalleymontessori.org website. Describe your experience with the Montessori approach and your passion for working with young children in your cover letter. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Spokane Valley Montessori is an equal-opportunity employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students.