Careers at CCS

Current Openings

• Executive Director  

Access to high-quality early childhood education is essential for families and communities alike, providing the foundation for children’s social, emotional, and academic development. The mission of the Children’s Community School is to create a collaborative community of young children, families, and educators that honors and empowers children to be active agents in their learning and lives. Situated in West Philadelphia, The Children’s Community School (CCS) is a small, independent, non-profit, NAEYC accredited, PA Keystone STARS-4 child care center that uses a play-based, emergent curriculum tailored to kids’ natural curiosity and personalized for each class and age group.

CCS is a learning community rooted in a progressive approach to education, in which children and adults are all valued as learners and teachers. The emphasis at our preschool is on utilizing practices that educate the whole child, including their emotional, social, physical, and intellectual being. CCS serves approximately 50 students from 18 months to 5 years old and is a year round program. The Board is seeking a full-time Executive Director to begin January 2026.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Early Childhood Education professional to lead a small, community-based center rooted in its mission and values. The ideal candidate brings a passion for early childhood education, leads with purpose and collaboration, and actively drives the school’s vision, strategy, and daily operations alongside a team of talented teachers.

The Position

The Executive Director leads our school with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to early childhood education. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on management, ensuring that our mission and values are reflected in every aspect of our work with children, families, and staff. The Executive Director oversees all administrative, financial, and programmatic operations, including staff supervision, budgeting, fundraising, licensing, and facilities. They collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to guide strategic planning and ensure long-term sustainability, while also fostering a culture of equity, inclusion, and community connection. As the public face of the school, the Executive Director builds strong relationships with families, partners, and the broader ECE community to advance the school’s mission and impact.

Major Focus areas of this position will include:

• • Organizational Leadership & Culture: Inspire and guide staff while maintaining a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven school environment.
  • Financial Sustainability: Oversee budgeting, fundraising, and long-term financial planning in partnership with the Board.
  • Program Quality & Compliance: Ensure curriculum excellence, staff development, and adherence to all licensing, safety, and accreditation standards.
  • Community Engagement: Strengthen relationships with families, partners, and the wider ECE community to advance advocacy and collaboration.

The Executive Director serves as the school’s leader in finance, human resources, facilities, and program quality. They develop and oversee the budget, fundraising, and enrollment strategy; supervise and mentor staff; update and implement HR policies; and ensure safe, well-maintained facilities. They guide curriculum, assessment, and classroom practices, ensuring alignment with the school’s philosophy, best practices in early childhood education, equity and inclusion, accreditation standards, and licensing regulations. The Executive Director partners with the Board, attends meetings, supports governance, and serves as a liaison between staff and the Board. They also lead communication and relationship-building with families and the community, foster a positive and inclusive school culture, support events, and advocate for CCS within the broader early childhood education field.

Qualifications: 

• • Experience as an Executive Director of a non-profit organization or an Early Childhood Center.
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Nonprofit Management or related field preferred
  • Pennsylvania Director Credential, PreK–4 teaching certification or PA Infant/Toddler Early Childhood Credential preferred
  • Must meet all background check requirements
  • Strong leadership and team management skills
  • Demonstrated ability to foster collaboration and build positive team culture
  • Excellent organizational and time management abilities
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficient with standard office and communication tools (spreadsheets, shared docs, email, social media, etc.) 

Compensation and Benefits

• • Salary range: $62,000-$72,000, commensurate with experience, credentials, and internal equity.
  • Salary will be paid over 12 months, with planned increases in future years tied to planned increased enrollment or meeting fundraising targets.
  • Includes health and dental insurance, paid time off, family and disability leave, and reduced CCS tuition.

To Apply:

Please send a resume and cover letter outlining your experience and how it aligns with this position to hiring@childrenscommunityschool.org with “CCS Executive Director” in the subject line.

CCS is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by relevant national and state law.