Preschool Child Care Director

Posted 8 days ago

pillars christian learning centerCharleston (SC)

Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare Child Care Services

SENIORITY

Senior

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About the role

Smart Cookies Preschool Center Director Smart Cookies preschools serve families with children ages six weeks to five years old in the Charleston area. We are small enough to know every child and family by name, yet big enough to offer dynamic classrooms, enriching programs, and intentional care that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond. With two schools located on Savannah Highway, we help parents choose the right fit for their child's age and developmental stage. Our mission is to create a warm, joyful environment where children learn, grow, and develop strong foundations for life. Our core values are: Quality, Integrity, Service, and Community. Smart Cookies is proud to be part of Lantern Learning Group, a purpose-led network of preschools united by shared values and a commitment to exceptional early childhood education. Being part of this larger family provides our team with added resources, professional growth opportunities, and long-term stability—while allowing each school to maintain the unique culture and identity that makes it special in its community.

About the Role: As Center Director, you'll lead a high-quality early childhood program while making every family feel safe and confident in our care. You'll receive a daily fringe benefit—lots of hugs, smiles, and laughter! The School Director manages operations, enrollment, compliance, and food service, while helping build a joyful, organized, and mission-aligned center.

Key Responsibilities:

Support compliance with federal, state, and local licensing regulations
Promote enrollment through tours, CRM follow-up, and community engagement
Maintain accurate records for attendance and expenses
Plan and conduct staff training on nutrition, civil rights, and compliance
Create staff schedules and support daily workflow
Assist with classroom activities, field trips, and special events
Manage supplies, equipment, and Procare system functions
Prepare reports for HHSC and other agencies
Help resolve staff concerns and support team culture
Plan family engagement activities and foster strong relationships

What We're Looking For:

Passion for early childhood education
Strong organizational and leadership skills
Experience with CACFP, state licensing, and center operations preferred
Excellent communication and customer service abilities
Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced environment
All hourly employees receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:
Employer covers 70% of employee medical premiumsFSA/DCA enrollment options
Voluntary Dental & Vision coverage
Voluntary Life, Disability, Accident & Critical Illness coverage
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Voluntary Pet Insurance80 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) – accruals start day 113–15 paid holidays annually2 days of paid Bereavement Leave
Childcare tuition discounts
Scholarship program
Lantern Learning Group Paid Family Leave (LLGPFL)401(k) with 6% match; no wait time for vesting once eligibleCDA Program Assistance
RequirementsRequired Education and Experience
Meet State minimum education and experience Director requirements.
Preferred Education and Experience
Two years of experience in childcare administration
Five years of experience in curriculum implementation
Sales and/or marketing experience

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

Successful completion of an FBI and SLED background check
Annual completion of 15 hours of training, including:5 hours in child growth and development5 hours in curriculum activities for children
Remaining hours in health, safety, or other child care-related topics
Current Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED certifications
If transporting children, a valid Class C driver's license with a clean Department of Public Safety record, plus 2 hours of transportation training annually

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