Preschool Center Director

Lantern Learning Group is a purpose-led network of preschools dedicated to exceptional early childhood education and the holistic development of young children. The organization unites families, educators, and school owners around a shared mission while honoring the unique identity and character of each school in its network. With schools across the Southeast United States, Lantern Learning Group supports a range of educational models and pedagogies, including traditional and faith-based programs, with Montessori and dual-language options forthcoming. Through centralized services, leadership development, and a culture of excellence, the group helps schools strengthen operations, elevate educational outcomes, and thrive for generations. Lantern Learning Group views childcare as a calling and aims to build communities where children grow in confidence, character, and readiness for lifelong success.

Role Description

The Preschool School Director is a full-time, on-site role based in Johns Island, SC, responsible for overseeing the daily operations and educational quality of the preschool. This role includes leading and supporting teaching teams, ensuring high standards of safety, licensing compliance, and classroom management, and fostering positive relationships with children, families, and staff. The Director manages enrollment processes, family communication, and school events, while maintaining accurate records and reporting for regulatory and organizational requirements. Daily responsibilities also involve implementing curriculum and pedagogical practices aligned with Lantern Learning Group’s mission, mentoring educators, and cultivating a warm, inclusive school culture. The Director collaborates with Lantern Learning Group’s support team to align school goals with network initiatives and drive continuous improvement in program quality and family experience.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership and school administration skills, including team supervision, staff development, and performance management.
• Experience in early childhood education, including curriculum implementation, classroom observation, and support for diverse learning needs.
• Strong family engagement and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and partner effectively with caregivers and the community.
• Operational and organizational skills in areas such as scheduling, enrollment management, record-keeping, and adherence to licensing and safety regulations.
• Ability to create an inclusive, child-centered environment that reflects Lantern Learning Group’s values of confidence, character, and lifelong achievement.
• Relevant education in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field; director-level or teaching certifications and experience in preschool or childcare settings are highly beneficial.
• Knowledge of or openness to working with varied pedagogical approaches (such as traditional, faith-based, Montessori, or dual-language programs).
• Commitment to ethical practices, continuous learning, and collaboration with a broader network of schools to improve outcomes for children and families.