It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.
We have an exciting opportunity for a School Program Coordinator working in our State-of-the-Art facility! At The Gardner School of Northbrook, you will be part of a caring, fun, dynamic group of professional teachers that thrive on providing exceptional educational experiences. You will work in an environment that values your contributions and provides you with the resources you need to apply high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs. Your experience and expertise are highly valued, your contributions are recognized, and your professional goals are supported. If you have a desire and passion to make a difference in the lives of children and parents, The Gardner School is the place for you!
What You’ll Do:
Manage the School in conformance with all state and local regulations and The Gardner School policies and procedures.
Administrative duties to include opening and closing the school in the absence of the Executive School Director and Assistant School Director.
Prepare and forward reports in accordance with The Gardner School policies and procedures.
Assists in tracking all inquiries and converts inquiries into parent tours of the school.
Maintains professional and positive relationships and communication with parents and staff.
Maintains confidentiality of school directives, curriculum, and software.
Utilized to provide additional classroom support during high volume times.
Lead and teach children through all activities of the day, assuring they have an enjoyable, well-rounded educational experience in the absences of teaching staff.
Ensures that classroom and playground equipment is maintained in good repair.
Enforces all safety rules and regulations with staff for the safety of the children and parents
Notifies parents via telephone immediately should their child suffer any type of injury. Ensure proper documentation of accident/incident and obtain necessary signatures.
Dispense medication to children that have a medication authorization form.
Keep fully apprised of all activities in the school.
Always represent the best interests of the children and The Gardner School.
Other duties as assigned.
What We Offer:
Competitive Pay: The starting salary range for this position is $41,200-$48,500 annually. Actual pay will depend on factors such as relevant experience, skills, and education.
Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities
Career Growth: Ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement within our growing organization, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or a related field.
Must meet state licensing requirements for Director qualifications (education and experience)
Experience
Minimum 2 year of experience in a licensed child development program, with at least 1 year as a teacher or supervising a childcare program. (required)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills
Knowledge of state childcare licensing standards and early learning best practices
Ability to manage staff scheduling, budgets, and daily school operations effectively
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and administrative systems
Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and positive relationships with families and staff
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with consistent, reliable attendance
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift and carry children up to 60 lbs
Ability to operate computers, phones, and standard office/classroom equipment
Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, including active engagement throughout the school environment
Why You’ll Love The Gardner School
Beautiful, state-of-the-art preschool environment
Supportive leadership team focused on professional growth
Comprehensive benefits package: Health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, childcare tuition discount, and paid holidays
Continuous training and career advancement opportunities
The Gardner School extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual’s age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by law.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or related field
- Meet state licensing requirements for Director qualifications (education and experience)
- Minimum 2 years of experience in a licensed child development program, with at least 1 year as a teacher or supervising a childcare program
- Knowledge of state childcare licensing standards and early learning best practices
- Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills
- Ability to manage staff scheduling, budgets, and daily school operations
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and administrative systems
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and positive relationships with families and staff
- Ability to lift and carry children up to 60 lbs and actively engage throughout the school environment
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What We Do
The Gardner School operates academically focused preschools and childcare centers for children from six weeks through age five. Its programs combine intentional early learning, experienced and caring teachers, peer interaction, and thoughtfully designed environments to support children’s growth, curiosity, confidence, and sense of belonging. The company serves families across multiple U.S. states through year-round early childhood education and full- and part-time childcare offerings.
