Director of School, High Hopes, Inc. 

Job Overview: 
The Director of School at High Hopes, Inc. serves as the educational leader of our preschool for children from 6 weeks to pre-kindergarten, including those with special needs, developmental delays, or neurodiversity, as well as typically developing children. This role encompasses the oversight of educational programs, compliance with regulatory standards, staff leadership, and fostering an environment conducive to the development of all students. The Director ensures the delivery of high-quality educational initiatives through a curriculum that accommodates diverse learning needs, promotes lifelong learning, and maintains rigorous standards in a safe, inclusive environment. 

Responsibilities: 

Educational Leadership and Program Management 

• Oversee the implementation of an adaptive curriculum aligned with the Tennessee Early Learning Development Standards and designed to meet a diverse range of learning needs and abilities. 
• Ensure compliance with all Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations, maintaining necessary documentation and communication with DHS representatives. 
• Collaborate with the Assistant Director and other staff, including High Hopes’ administration, clinical services, and facilities, to ensure smooth daily operations and coordination of initiatives and services. 

 Staff Development 

• Lead the hiring, professional development, coaching and retention efforts of approximately 30 educational staff members, including lead teachers, co-teachers, and teaching assistants. 
• Evaluate educational staff performance including conducting classroom observations and managing the performance review process.
• Coach and mentor staff to enhance instructional strategies and classroom management skills. 

Family and Community Engagement 

• Maintain effective ongoing communication with families, providing regular updates and fostering relationships to support student development. 
• Coordinate Individualized Preschool Plans (IPP) for students with special needs and organize biannual family meetings to discuss progress and goals.
• Represent High Hopes in the greater community advocating for inclusive education and building partnerships that enhance the school’s mission.
• Produce a weekly family newsletter and maintain an updated parent handbook. 

 Administrative Duties 

• Manage the school’s operational budget in collaboration with the Director of Finance. 
• Oversee the maintenance of student records, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. 
• Lead administrative support staff to include nurse, admissions, curriculum, etc. 

 Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s or master's degree in early childhood education, elementary education, special education, or educational leadership and administration. 
• Three + years of leadership experience in an educational setting, preferably in early childhood education. 
• Experience working with children with and without special needs. 
• Strong knowledge of curriculum design, instructional methods, and classroom management.
• Familiarity with DHS licensure, certification requirements, and regulations. 

• Proven leadership and administrative capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive educational environment.  
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities. 

 Reports to: Executive Director 

 Position Type: Full Time, Exempt 

This enhanced job description aims to clearly articulate the responsibilities and expectations for the role of Director of School at High Hopes, Inc., highlighting the educational environment's inclusive and adaptive nature and the comprehensive scope of duties associated with this pivotal position.