Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Signing bonus

Training & development

Tuition assistance

Vision insurance

Wellness resources

💼 Compensation & Benefits:

Salary: $65,000–$70,000 base + performance-based bonuses throughout the year

Health Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield medical, dental, vision – We cover 50% of your monthly payment!

Time Off: 15 PTO days in Year 1 + all holidays + one paid week off for Winter Break

Childcare: Deep staff discounts

Retirement: 401K with company match

Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement, Goddard Director's Convention, and more!

After three successful years, our wonderful Executive Director has been promoted to Regional Director – and we’re now looking for a passionate, experienced leader to take the reins!

The Executive Director at The Goddard School of Deerfield is the heartbeat of our community—responsible for the daily operations, staff support, family engagement, and upholding the high standards of care and education that families trust and love.

✨ What You’ll Be Doing:

🌱 Operational Leadership

Oversee the day-to-day operations of the school, including staff scheduling, hiring, events, and family communications

Ensure compliance with DCFS licensing and Goddard Quality Assurance standards

Coordinate and celebrate community milestones (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.)

👩‍🏫 Faculty Support & Development

Recruit, train, mentor, and retain a strong team of educators

Lead monthly faculty meetings and bi-annual in-service training

Conduct regular performance evaluations and create individualized growth plans

📚 Curriculum & Classroom Oversight

Support teachers in delivering a developmentally appropriate, engaging curriculum

Ensure consistency in classroom management and lesson implementation

Regularly observe classrooms and provide constructive feedback

📊 Administrative & Financial Management

Manage payroll tasks including timecard reviews and PTO approvals

Oversee budgeting and purchasing

Keep employee records organized and up to date

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & Community Engagement

Build warm, trust-based relationships with families

Address parent concerns promptly and thoughtfully

Represent the school at community events and maintain a visible social media presence

🛡️ Safety & Facility Management

Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming facility

Oversee emergency drills, incident reports, and daily health/safety protocols

Manage maintenance needs, both indoors and outdoors

💻 Tech & Communication

Use platforms like Outlook, Teams, Excel, OneNote, Constant Contact, Canva, Zoom, and Adobe PDF for day-to-day tasks

Create clear and professional communication for families and staff

Organize and manage digital files across shared drives

🌟 Leadership & Initiative

Work independently and collaboratively to move the school forward

Lead with empathy, integrity, and a problem-solving mindset

Be a steady and inspiring presence for staff, families, and children alike

🕒 Schedule & Expectations:

Our school is open Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. We typically adhere to a 9-hour workday, but we’re looking for someone who can offer flexibility as needed.

Occasional longer days may be required

Monthly virtual all-team meetings (after hours)

2–3 weekend events per year (celebrations, community outreach, etc.)

✅ What We’re Looking For:

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (required)

Director-qualified by DCFS (required)

5+ years of experience in early childhood education, including at least 3 in a leadership role

Strong organizational and communication skills

Tech-savvy with the ability to train and support others in digital tools

A heart for children and a commitment to staff growth and well-being

🧡 Why Join Us?

At The Goddard School of Deerfield, we believe in growing together. We support our staff with the same care we give our students—because happy teachers create thriving classrooms. We're seeking someone who’s not just qualified, but dedicated, dependable, and here for the long haul.

Ready to step into a leadership role where you’ll be valued, supported, and inspired every day? APPLY TODAY!

Each Goddard School location is privately owned and operated by Goddard Franchisor LLC franchisees. The Goddard School franchise owner(s) are the employers at each school, and the franchise owner(s) set their own wage and benefit programs, which vary by location.