Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Job Title: Daycare Director – New Horizons Montessori Academy (NHMA)

Location: Exton, PA Job Type: Full-Time

About Us

New Horizons Montessori Academy (NHMA) is a well-established early childhood center dedicated to providing nurturing, high-quality Montessori education. Founded in 2013 with just five students, we’ve grown to serve up to 184 children. Our school fosters a collaborative, engaging environment for students, families, and educators alike.

We are currently seeking a passionate and experienced Daycare Director to oversee our day-to-day operations, ensure compliance with all state and local regulations, and lead our team of dedicated educators with integrity and excellence.

Position Summary

The Daycare Director is responsible for the overall management of NHMA, including operations, staffing, compliance, curriculum planning, and family engagement. This role requires strong leadership, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to early childhood education and Montessori principles.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Administration

Oversee daily school operations, including before-care and after-care programs.

Ensure compliance with state and local regulatory agencies (DHS/OCDEL, PDE, PA Health Dept., etc.).

Monitor student enrollment, maintain records, and ensure safety procedures are followed.

Implement and refine school-wide policies and procedures.

Leadership & Staff Supervision

Hire, train, and mentor staff, promoting a positive and professional school culture.

Conduct classroom observations and staff performance evaluations.

Ensure all employee records and clearances are maintained.

Lead monthly staff meetings and professional development sessions.

Parent & Community Engagement

Build strong relationships with families, addressing concerns and providing support.

Organize and attend school events, open houses, and PTA meetings.

Support school marketing and outreach efforts to promote enrollment.

Curriculum & Academic Oversight

Maintain the academic calendar and support lesson planning in line with Montessori philosophy.

Oversee curriculum review and enhancement, including advanced learning opportunities.

Monitor student development and ensure compliance with district/state evaluations.

Strategic & Financial Planning

Prepare quarterly reports for the CEO on staff performance, school progress, and goals.

Assist with budgeting, financial planning, and resource management.

Lead grant-seeking efforts and community partnerships to support school growth.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, or related field (required)

Montessori certification or experience (preferred)

Experience:

Minimum 3 years of experience as a daycare or preschool director

Strong knowledge of DHS/OCDEL regulations

Background in Montessori or early childhood education leadership (preferred)

Skills:

Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills

Ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion

Collaborative, proactive, and solutions-oriented mindset

Technical Proficiency:

Proficient in daycare management software (attendance, billing, parent communication)

Comfortable with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Experience using online compliance/licensing portals and HR/payroll systems (preferred)

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $58,000 – $70,000/year (based on experience and qualifications)

Paid Time Off: 26 days annually (20 vacation + 6 sick/personal)

Health Insurance

401(k): 100% employer match up to 4%

Holiday Breaks: NHMA-approved holidays

Tuition Discount: 50% for children or grandchildren enrolled at NHMA

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position. We look forward to welcoming a strong, mission-driven leader to our NHMA team!