Director, Early Childhood Education​/Preschool

The Goddard School® located in Tustin, CA is looking for a motivated, self‑starter for a Director position. The ideal candidate must have strong leadership skills, excellent communication skills, and a good understanding of a developmentally appropriate learning program for young children. In addition, the candidate should be able to motivate and inspire others.

In The Goddard School®’s unique and flexible learning environment, child development is about turning everyday encounters into teachable moments and allowing children’s interests to influence their learning experiences through a balance of academic, mental, physical, and social‑emotional growth.

Urgently Hiring!

The Preschool Director of Operations is responsible for overseeing the day‑to‑day operations of a preschool facility. This role combines a deep passion for early childhood education with strong organizational and leadership skills. The ideal candidate is loving, caring, enjoys working with young children, and has more than 6 years of experience running a preschool infant and toddler center.

• Virtual 3D Rendering of the Tustin Facility:
• Lake Forest Goddard Curriculum Tour:
• Lake Forest Facility:

• Staff Management and Development
  • Recruit, hire, and train qualified teachers and support staff.
  • Provide ongoing supervision, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
  • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Operational Oversight
  • Oversee scheduling, budgeting, and regulatory compliance.
  • Support accreditation efforts such as QRIS.
  • Coordinate enrollment, admissions, and parent communications.
  • Maintain accurate student records.
• Parent and Community Engagement – Cultivate strong relationships with parents and families, organize conferences and community events.
• Curriculum Development – Collaborate with teachers to implement a proprietary STEAM‑based curriculum that meets preschool developmental needs.
• Health and Safety – Inspect facilities and equipment to ensure compliance with licensing and QA standards.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in early childhood education, focusing on preschool.
• Strong knowledge of STEAM‑based curriculum and pedagogy.
• Proven leadership abilities in staff management and development.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with licensing requirements and preschool regulations.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Passion for creating a positive learning environment for young children.

• Family like work environment.
• Excellent growth opportunities within the school.
• Competitive compensation.
• Sick days, paid holidays, medical insurance.
• Teacher tuition discounts.
• Discounted childcare.
• 401(k) plan.
• Staff development and teacher training opportunities.

Job Type: Full‑time

Salary: $70,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year

Schedule: 8‑hour shift daily, Monday to Friday

Education: Bachelor’s (Preferred)

Experience: Director: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: Onsite, in person

Join The Goddard School and empower children’s early learning in a vibrant and nurturing environment. As a premiere early childhood school with over 35 years of experience, The Goddard School offers teachers the support to grow professionally while making a difference in children's lives every day.