Preschool Center Director

Company: Hazelwood Preschool
Location: Seattle
Posted on: June 1, 2025

Job Description:

Hazelwood Preschool is a fun and welcoming early childhood education center that sits next to Fauntleroy Park in West Seattle. Our provides a nurturing environment for students age 2 - Pre-K. Curiosity, creativity, outdoor education, and social-emotional development are at the heart of our curriculum. We believe in a play-based, child-centered approach that encourages exploration and discovery while preparing children for their next educational steps.

Hazelwood Preschool was established in August 2021 and has quickly grown into a thriving full day preschool program. We are now a non-profit and are led by our director/founder, Jessica Beckwith, as well as a committed Board of Directors made up of parents and community members. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a passionate and experienced Center Director to lead our team and oversee the daily operations of our program that meets both state standards and our vision for the school.


Position OverviewThe Center Director will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of Hazelwood Preschool, ensuring compliance with all state and county licensing requirements, leading curriculum development, supporting and training teachers, and fostering a positive learning environment for children and staff.Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Operations
• Oversee the daily management of Hazelwood Preschool, ensuring an organized, and nurturing learning environment
• Monitor and maintain high standards for safety, cleanliness, and program quality
• Assist in the hiring process, train and mentor teachers and staff, and promote a culture of growth and collaboration
• Manage staffing schedules and classroom ratios in accordance with licensing requirements
• Assist with daily parent communications
  • Curriculum & Teacher Development
  • Guide the implementation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports children's cognitive, social, and emotional growth and aligns with the vision and goals of the school
  • Coordinate teacher training and work with the Executive Director to develop professional development and ongoing coaching sessions
  • Compliance & Licensing
  • Work closely with the Executive Director to ensure the center continues to meet and exceed all state and county regulations for licensing, health, and safety and is well prepared for inspections
  • Assist with the finalization of the licensing process
  • Family & Community Engagement
  • Build relationships with families, staff, and the community to create a welcoming and supportive preschool environment
  • Act as a representative of Hazelwood Preschool within the community to build partnerships and maintain a positive reputation
  • Participate in community and family eventsRequired Qualifications
    • Possesses an Early Childhood Education (ECE) State Certificate, Child Development, or a related field approved by state regulations
    • A minimum of five years of experience in early childhood education in a licensed school, with at least two years in a leadership or administrative role
    • Knowledge of Washington State, King County Health, and DCYF licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, and best practices in early childhood education
    • Completed Child Care Basics and is up to date on required certifications such as First/Aid, CPR, Blood Born Pathogens, and a Food Handlers Permit
    • Legally able to work in Washington State and at least 18 years of age
    • Ability to pass all required background checksWho You Are
      • A strong leader with excellent communication and organizational skills, able to guide and support a team effectively
      • Passionate about your field and driven to make a meaningful impact through your work
      • Skilled at managing staffing, scheduling, and conflict with a problem-solving mindset
      • A positive and supportive presence, capable of motivating and encouraging employees, even in high-stress situations
      • Committed to continuous learning and improvement, embracing challenges with a growth mindsetPreferred Qualifications:
        • Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
        • Experience in HighScope, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or play-based curriculum models
        • Experience in nature based educationWhy Join Hazelwood Preschool?
          • A leadership role with room to make an impact:
            You'll shape the learning experiences of young children, lead a team of passionate educators, and help us grow our community
          • Supportive Leadership:
            Work alongside an engaged Executive Director who will oversee the business side and support you as you focus on education, curriculum, and teacher development.
          • Competitive salary and benefits:
            We offer health, vision, and dental coverage, along with a salary that reflects your expertise and experience
            • A collaborative, growth-focused environment:
              We believe in ongoing professional development and fostering a positive, team-oriented workplace
            • The chance to help build something special:
              As we complete our licensing process and continue to establish our school, you'll play a key role in shaping our program's success
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Keywords: Hazelwood Preschool, Lakewood , Preschool Center Director, Executive , Seattle, Washington