Job Description
Director of Day School
First Presbyterian Church Day School of Gastonia
Gastonia, NC
Reports to: Senior Pastor
Directly Supervises: Assistant Director of Day School and all teaching and support staff.
Status: Full Time FLSA: Exempt
Position Summary
The Director of First Presbyterian Church Day School (FPCDS) is a full-time, salaried professional staff employee responsible for the effective administration and leadership of FPCDS at First Presbyterian Church, Gastonia. The FPCDS Director will assist the session through the FPCDS Committee in overseeing the weekday school and the preschool programs. This person is responsible for managing the daily operations, program development, staff management, and regulatory compliance of the childcare center. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality early childhood education and care in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment. In addition, this person will possess the highest standards of professionalism, a commitment to caring for children as a Christian calling, and a clear understanding of confidentiality in all areas of the church’s life and ministry.
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Primary Responsibilities
Leadership and Management:
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Provide overall leadership and direction to staff, fostering a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment.
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Determine staffing needs and recommend to the FPCDS Committee all potential staff by overseeing the interview and reference check process.
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Provide appropriate orientation for all new staff.
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Schedule necessary training, workshops, and seminars as required for NC licensing and teacher credentials.
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Maintain all necessary certifications and meet the number of annual training hours required by the state.
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Supervise the maintenance of all records necessary for operation of FPCDS, for both children and staff.
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Maintain accurate records for children, staff, and the facility as required by licensing agencies.
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Ensure compliance with all state licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and organizational policies.
Family and Community Engagement:
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Build strong relationships with parents and guardians, ensuring open communication and partnership in supporting each child’s development.
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Plan family events, orientations, and parent conferences.
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Plan and implement parent involvement programs and regular communication by staff with parents regarding curriculum, child development and education, and all school activities.
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Represent FPCDS at community events and on a regular basis before the congregation at First Church Gastonia.
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Communicate positively with all staff, parents, church members, church staff, and the public.
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Coordinate participation by FPCDS children and staff in Vacation Bible School during the summer.
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Qualifications
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Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
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Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in early childhood education, including supervisory/administrative experience.
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Knowledge of state childcare licensing requirements and quality standards.
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Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills (both written communication and oral communication).
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Ability to work cooperatively with the FPCDS Committee and other church committees and church staff. Maintain high professional standards of conduct, attitude, dress, and speech.
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CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).
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Agree with and embody the values and practices of the First Presbyterian Church, Gastonia.
Working Conditions
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Full-time position, typically Monday-Friday, with occasional evenings or weekends for meetings/events.
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Active environment requires ability to lift up to 40 pounds and engage with children at their level.
Submit your résumé and cover letter to: FPC Business Administrator.
