DIRECTOR OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

We are looking for an innovative Director of Early Childhood Education for The Philip J. Solondz Preschool at Temple Beth Shalom, in Livingston, New Jersey. Temple Beth Shalom is a fully egalitarian, inclusive congregation affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism with a commitment to Jewish education and outreach to the community. Our congregation is thriving and active, and the preschool is housed in our dedicated childhood learning center with secure indoor and outdoor facilities.

The Director will work in partnership with our rabbis, cantors, educators and leadership to grow our program, shape curriculum, market to and communicate with potential families in the local Jewish and general community. The Director will oversee a vibrant early childhood program from Toddler Time through Pre-K. The successful candidate will bring great energy and creativity to the position and work with children and our families to broaden the appeal of the preschool.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

-Manage the day to day activities in the preschool, support classrooms, nurture children’s curiosity, and inspire children to become compassionate citizens;

-Increase enrollment by developing innovative marketing, programs and curriculum that appeal to the Livingston community and surrounding areas;

-Oversee the process of recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and supervising staff;

-Demonstrate respect, openness, understanding, and commitment to children with diverse backgrounds, interests, and abilities;

-Plan and organize daily and yearly curriculum and calendars for the primary groups in Jewish Studies, General Studies, and Hebrew that is in line with progressive educational approaches;

-Partner with rabbis and cantors to infuse Jewish values, holidays, and cultural experiences into the program;

-Continue to grow and support the program’s mission and vision including:

-The inherent dignity and equality of every human being;

-A love of Torah and Jewish tradition (customs, Shabbat and holidays, food, and culture);

-Our connection to the Jewish people and the State of Israel

-Demonstrate a willingness to participate in continued professional development and keep up to date on early childhood research and trends;

-Understand technology for use in classrooms, remote learning, and for communications with families and reporting systems;

-Has knowledge of all reporting systems and state licensing requirements;

-Work with synagogue lay leaders and staff to develop annual budget;

-Promote a positive work environment via team development opportunities and professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

-Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required. Master’s Degree preferred;

-Supervisory experience in a similar position;

-Knowledge of and ability to implement New Jersey standards for licensed child care center;

-Proven ability to lead professional development efforts and support educators within a teaching and learning environment;

-Dynamic leadership, motivated to inspire and be inclusive;

-Strong written and verbal communication skills;

-Ability to communicate with parents, children, staff, and leadership in a confident and calm manner;

-Strong computer skills;

-Musical background preferred but not required.

COMPENSATION:

Salary is commensurate with experience. We offer a competitive compensation package which includes vacation, synagogue membership, contribution towards Temple Beth Shalom health insurance plan, and professional development allowance. You will become part of our caring community as a member of our senior staff. Start date of July 1, 2023.

Please submit a detailed resume and thoughtful cover letter to search@tbsnj.org