Nature Based Preschool Program Director
About Us
Fox Hollow Forest School is a joyful, full-time, year round, nature based preschool located on the grounds of Barstow Memorial School and the East Creek Trails. Our students (3-5 years old) are outside for most of the day exploring the trails, streams and fields; learning happens under every rock and down every path. We have 16 children at
Chittenden is one of two sites and has 16 children and 3-4 teachers; our other site is Rutland City and will be opening in September.
POSITION SUMMARY
A Program Director provides leadership for a specific program or site within Fox Hollow Forest School. Working in partnership with the Executive Director, the Program Director ensures the daily success, quality, and growth of their site program while upholding the school’s mission of joyful, nature-based learning.
The Program Director is responsible for supervising program staff, supporting families, maintaining compliance with licensing and regulatory requirements, and managing the program’s budget and enrollment goals. The Program Director helps cultivate a strong learning community and ensures that the program operates smoothly and in alignment with the vision of Fox Hollow Forest School.
The Program Director reports to the Executive Director and works collaboratively with other program leaders across the organization.
Depending on the needs of the program, the Program Director may also spend a portion of their time working directly with children in the classroom. This role can be 2-5 days a week depending on the preference of the applicant.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Program Leadership & Quality
Oversee the day-to-day functioning of the assigned program or site.
Ensure that the program reflects the philosophy and practices of nature-based education central to Fox Hollow Forest School.
Maintain a positive, collaborative program culture for children, families, and staff.
Work with the Executive Director to evaluate program success and identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
Staff Supervision & Support
Supervise, mentor, and support program staff including lead teachers and assistants, ensuring working at Fox Hollow is sustainable and enjoyable.
Conduct staff observations, coaching conversations, and evaluations.
Ensure that staff maintain required certifications and complete required trainings.
Help foster a professional culture of reflection, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Work with the Executive Director on hiring decisions and staffing needs.
Family Communication & Community Building
Along with the Lead Teacher, serve as a primary point of contact for families within the program.
Represent the program to new and enquiring families through conducting tours and assisting families with questions or concerns.
Communicate regularly with families about program events, and policies. Support strong relationships between families, teachers, and the school community.
Address family questions or concerns in a timely and supportive manner and liaise with Executive Director for further support as needed.
Help cultivate a welcoming, connected program community.
Licensing & Regulatory Compliance
Ensure the program meets all applicable licensing and regulatory requirements, including:
- Vermont DCF childcare licensing
- STARS program requirements
- UPK / Act 166 requirements (if applicable)
- Employee Rights
- Health and Safety
Maintain accurate records and documentation for inspections and reporting.
Work with the Executive Director to ensure organizational compliance systems are functioning effectively.
Budget & Program Management
Develop and manage the annual program budget in collaboration with the Executive Director.
Monitor program expenses and ensure responsible use of resources.
Support enrollment efforts and help ensure the program remains financially sustainable.
Identify program needs for materials, equipment, and staffing.
Collaboration with Executive Director
Work closely with the Executive Director to support the health and growth of the program.
Provide regular updates on program operations, staffing, enrollment, and challenges.
Participate in leadership meetings and organizational planning.
Help implement school-wide policies, initiatives, and strategic goals.
Optional Teaching Responsibilities
Depending on the needs of the program, the Program Director may spend a portion of their time working directly in the classroom as a teacher or assistant teacher.
The balance of administrative and teaching responsibilities will be determined annually in collaboration with the Executive Director and may shift throughout the school year based on program needs.
Qualifications
Experience working as a Program Director or Assistant Director in a VT preschool. Comprehensive understanding of VT child care licensing regulations, CCFAP, Bright Futures Platform, STARS program, and Act 166 (UPK) process
Team Management Experience: have set a positive culture and excellent working environment with more than 5 full time employees, have supervised and mentored employees
Nature Based Education Experience: Understanding of forest school philosophy and programming and experience working within nature-based or environmental education and programs. Training/classes in nature-based, outdoor, or environmental education
Administrator / Organizer: Computer skills (Gmail, Drive, Brightwheel, Excel, Gusto, government software)
Budgeting/Business Experience: has an understanding of creating and managing budgets, reading and using a P&L, understanding of employee benefits
Licensing Requirements:
7.3.1.3 The program director of a CBCCPP licensed to serve thirteen (13) – fifty- 96 nine (59) children , and :
- A Vermont Early Childhood and Afterschool Program Director Step One (1) Certificate; or
- Successful completion of a three (3) college credit course in program management for early care and education or for school age care and education, or in staff supervision related to early care and education of children; and a three (3) college credit course in curriculum.
7.3.1.5 The program director of a CBCCPP licensed for thirteen (13) or more children shall complete start date a three (3) college credit course in managing an early care and education program that includes budgeting and financial management, approved by the Division;
Reporting Structure
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises:
- Lead Teachers
- Assistant Teachers
Salary and Benefits
- Full-time annual salary range of $58,350 for M-F, year round employment or pro rata for part time
- Paid holidays, school breaks, and inclement weather closings according to the RNESU schedule
- 15 PTO days for sick, personal or vacation
- Yearly paid professional development budget + 2 Paid PD days
- Regular inservice training with other preschool staff members
- Medical, Vision and Dental insurance options (ICHRA)
- 3 x year bonus / profit distribution
We look forward to learning more about you and this wonderful opportunity to join our growing community of nature and children nurturers!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $58,350.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Relocation assistance
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have the DSF required qualifications for a Director of CBCCPP program licensed to serve more than 13 children? (Refer to job description if necessary)
- Tell us about your experience with nature-based, child-led education? (short answer)
- Tell us about your experience as a Director or Assistant Director in a preschool?
Experience:
- Childcare Director / Assistant Director: 2 years (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Chittenden, VT 05737: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
