Overview
Preschool Director Jobs in Lake Forest, CA at Canopy Grove Montessori
Title: Preschool Director
Company: Canopy Grove Montessori
Location: Lake Forest, CA
Company Description
Canopy Grove Montessori provides a nurturing, high-quality early childhood environment rooted in the Montessori philosophy, with a focus on calm, structured classrooms that support independence and holistic development. Our program blends hands-on learning with nature-based experiences like planting, along with daily practices such as yoga and meditation to promote mindfulness and emotional well-being. We emphasize strong language development and early STEM learning to build a well-rounded foundation. Located in Lake Forest, we are committed to partnering with families to create a supportive, inclusive, and growth-focused community.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Preschool Director to lead daily operations, ensure licensing compliance, and oversee a high-quality Montessori early childhood education program. This role is ideal for a strong leader who can manage staff, drive enrollment, maintain regulatory standards, and build a structured, high-performing preschool environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily preschool operations, staffing, and scheduling
- Ensure full compliance with California childcare licensing regulations (CCL)Lead hiring, training, and performance management of teaching staff
- Develop and guide curriculum implementation aligned with Montessori principles
- Manage budgets, enrollment, and administrative operations
- Maintain a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environmentBuild strong relationships with families and serve as the primary point of contact
- Support licensing processes, inspections, and ongoing compliance
QualificationsRequired
- 12+ semester units in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development
- 3+ semester units in Administration or Staff Relations
- 4+ years of teaching experience in a licensed child care center
- Proven experience in preschool or early childhood program management
- Strong knowledge of childcare licensing and regulatory compliance
- Experience with curriculum development and classroom oversight
- Proficiency in budgeting, operations, and administrative management
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills
Preferred
- Experience with Montessori education principlesMontessori certification (preferred but not required)
What Success Looks Like
- Fully staffed, trained, and high-performing teaching team
- Strong enrollment growth and high parent satisfaction
- Consistent compliance with all licensing requirements
- Well-structured classrooms aligned with Montessori standards
- Smooth, efficient daily operations
Compensation & Benefits
- $65,000 – $95,000 annually (based on experience)Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development support
Why Join Canopy Grove Montessori
- Opportunity to lead and shape a high-quality Montessori program
- Supportive ownership with a focus on long-term growth
- Autonomy to build strong systems, culture, and team performance
