Apply by June 10, 2026 by submitting resume’ and application to info@trinityumcaiken.org

Preschool Director Position Description

Trinity UMC, Aiken, SC

Reports to: Pastor and Preschool Board

Position Status: Part-Time (≤30 hours/week, 8:00-2:00 M-Th)

Salary Range: $20k to $30k per year

Position Summary

Manages preschool operations, staff supervision, curriculum implementation, compliance, enrollment, budgeting, expenses, and communication with parents and church leadership.

Provides spiritual, educational, and administrative leadership for the church preschool ministry.

Responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate, and Christ-centered learning environment for children and families.

Supports the mission of the church and helps build strong relationships between the preschool, the congregation, and the wider community.

Responsibilities

Spiritual Leadership

• Promote a loving, Christ-centered atmosphere consistent with the values and teachings of the church.
• Incorporate age-appropriate Christian education, prayer, Bible stories, chapel experiences, and faith formation into the preschool program.
• Model Christian character, compassion, professionalism, and hospitality.
• Foster positive relationships with children, families, staff, church members, and the community.

Program Administration

• Oversee the daily operation of the preschool program.
• Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and parent handbooks.
• Ensure staff adhere to background checks, immunizations, Safe Sanctuary and First Aid/CPR requirements.
• Maintain accurate student, staff, and financial records.
• Manage the school calendar, registration, and enrollment processes.
• Manage classrooms, staffing ratios, program/staff evaluations and shared spaces.
• Ensure classrooms and playgrounds are clean, safe, and developmentally appropriate. Direct concerns to the Church Office.

Staff Leadership

• Recruit, hire^[1], supervise, train, evaluate, counsel, and release^[1] preschool staff and substitutes.
• Conduct regular (e.g. weekly) staff meetings and provide professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Ensure staff maintain appropriate certifications and continuing education.
• Monitor staff effectiveness and quality of care.
• Address personnel concerns in coordination with church leadership.

Educational Leadership

• Select and oversee curriculum appropriate for children ages 1K (6+ months) through 4K.
• Ensure classroom instruction supports social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development.
• Encourage play-based, developmentally appropriate learning practices.

Family and Community Engagement

• Build strong relationships with parents and caregivers.
• Communicate regularly regarding school activities, student progress, policies, and concerns.
• Coordinate parent orientation sessions, facility tours, conferences, and special events.
• Promote the preschool within the church and local community.
• Encourage preschool families to connect with church ministries and worship opportunities.

Financial Oversight

• Assist in developing and adhering to the preschool budget.
• Work with Preschool Treasurer to manage the fee collection, expense receipts and financial records.
• Approve purchases of curriculum, supplies, and equipment.
• Work collaboratively with church finance personnel and leadership teams.

Required Qualifications

• Strong commitment to Christian faith and the mission of the church.
• Experience in childhood education and administration.
• Knowledge of early childhood development and preschool best practices.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to supervise staff and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Proficient in computer programs/systems (e.g. eMail, MS Word, Excel, Acrobat, etc.)
• Must pass background screening and comply with child protection policies.
• Must attain CPR and First Aid certification.

Non-Mandatory, Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
• Previous preschool or childcare leadership experience.
• Experience working in a church or faith-based educational setting.
• Familiarity with the ministries and values of the United Methodist Church.
• Familiarity with Brightwheel^TM childcare management software.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout classrooms and playground areas.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergencies and to lift ≤25 pounds, if needed.
• Ability to engage actively with parents, staff and young children throughout the day.

Work Schedule

The Preschool Director’s schedule generally follows the preschool calendar, with additional responsibilities for planning, staff supervision, parent meetings, church staff/board meetings, special events and summer camps.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation and benefits are determined by the church based on experience, education, and program size.

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[1] Requires Preschool Board concurrence.