Director of Gan Yeladim Preschool - Norwalk, CT

Founded in 1957, Temple Shalom, Norwalk, CT. is a warm, inclusive, Reform Congregation that welcomes members from all backgrounds. The Temple’s mission is tocreate a supportive community that fosters meaningful connection to Jewish life and values by providing enriching experiences for its diverse congregants. Temple Shalom is a member of Congregations of the Union for Reform Judaism.

Position Summary:

Temple Shalom seeks to hire a dedicated, collaborative, Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) qualified Early Childhood Program Director to lead its licensed preschool and day care program located within its vibrant synagogue community. The program currently serves up to 93 children. The Director is responsible for operational management, regulatory compliance, curriculum design, and fostering a collaborative, positive, and nurturing community for children, staff and families.

The ideal candidate will combine strong early childhood education expertise with commitment and respect for the Temples’ faith-based and community values.

Leadership and Strategic Management

Provide the vision and leadership to create premier educational curricula and deliver exceptional standards of care for all age groups of children in the program.

Collaborate with leadership, clergy and the Board of Trustees to develop and implement strategic goals that align with the Temple’s values. culture, and mission.

Regulatory Compliance

Serve as the designated Director on record and primary point of contact with the CT Office of Early Childhood (OEC).

Ensure the preschool and daycare remain in full, continuous compliance with OEC childcare center regulations, health department rules, and fire safety standards.

Maintain accurate, up-to-date program, child, and staff records as required by state licensing laws.

Oversee licensing renewals, inspections, and corrective action plans, as needed

Curriculum Development & Operations

Engage in the development, implementation and assessment of age-appropriate, play-based curricula that meet Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS).

Ensure classrooms promote creativity, inquiry, and joyful learning.

Manage the program’s budget, supply inventories, and educational resources.

Ensure a high standard of facility care in coordination with Temple maintenance staff.

Recruit, onboard, mentor, and evaluate teaching staff and create systems that support staff success, engagement and retention.

Ensure compliance and active program status with the CT Early Childhood Professional Registry by routinely updating and validating staff credentials in the system.

Oversee staff scheduling to meet OEC ratio requirements across program operating hours from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

Facilitate and track staff meetings and provide professional development opportunities.

Build strong, compassionate relationships with parents and caregivers through open communication, regular updates, and family education opportunities.

Serve as ambassador for the early childhood program within the Temple and the broader Fairfield County community.

Connect young families with the synagogue activities.

Bachelor’s Degree required in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a closely related field;
Master’s Degree preferred.

CT Director’s Credential (CDC) or OEC Head Teacher Certification, required.

Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications or ability to obtain upon hire.

Ability to complete a minimum of 3 credits in one of the following fields from an accredited institution within one year of hire:
Administration of Early Childhood education program;
Educational Administration

3 - 5 years of supervision and/or…