Early Childhood & Elementary Director

Location:
Tree Top Academy | Jupiter, FL
6769 Church St.

Start Date: August 1, 2026

Description, Responsibilities, & Duties

The Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to lead a small, mission-driven school community with deep roots in Reggio Emilia philosophy. The ideal candidate is a reflective practitioner who approaches leadership with humility, curiosity, and warmth—someone who finds genuine joy in mentoring educators, studying children’s thinking, building relationships with families, and nurturing a culture of professional growth and inquiry. Due to the specialized pedagogical nature of this role, priority will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience in Reggio Emilia–informed or Montessori programs.

School Leadership & Administration

Collaborate with the Head of School, Executive Director and Creative Director on school operations, program development, and strategic planning
Ensure classrooms maintain nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environments aligned with TTA standards
Translate educational vision into clear systems, documentation, and practices that support the teaching team
Maintain compliance with DCF licensing regulations and Tree Top Academy policies and procedures
Oversee enrollment processes including conducting school tours and visits for prospective families
Assist with payroll, manage teacher budgets, and handle reimbursements
Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive staff and family information
Greet classes and check in with teachers each morning to maintain a positive school climate
Ensure a clean, organized, and welcoming environment for students, staff, and families

Pedagogical Leadership & Teacher Support

Guide the ongoing development of the school’s Reggio Emilia–informed pedagogy and Visible Thinking practices
Support teachers in observation, documentation, and reflective practice
Encourage inquiry-based learning, project work, and authentic expression across age groups
Facilitate ongoing pedagogical dialogue through weekly team meetings, Professional Learning Communities, and 1-on-1 teacher check-ins
Observe all teachers regularly; provide thoughtful, constructive feedback
Conduct new-hire orientation and coordinate the onboarding training program for all new staff
Conduct 30/60/90-day and annual teacher reviews with clear goal-setting
Coordinate professional development opportunities: PD days, conferences, on-site training, and online courses
Assist teachers with conference presentations and classroom-based research
Provide in-class Conscious Discipline support and training as needed

Family Partnership & Communication

Build strong, trusting relationships with families through open communication, dialogue, and a positive, approachable presence
Coordinate and attend parent conferences, parent Coffee Talks, and school events
Communicate proactively with families through regular newsletters and message updates
Help families understand and genuinely engage with the school’s philosophy and learning approach
Support admissions and enrollment in partnership with the leadership team
Address parent and teacher concerns in a calm, professional, and timely manner

Minimum Qualifications/Requirements

Required

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
Demonstrated experience and knowledge of the Reggio Emilia approach and/or Montessori philosophy
A minimum of 3–5 years of experience in early childhood education, with leadership or administrative responsibilities
Must hold (or be eligible to obtain) a Director’s Credential as required by state licensing
Strong understanding of child development from birth through age 8
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills with both educators and families
Ability to work calmly, professionally, and collaboratively in a dynamic school environment
Compliance with all state childcare employee regulations, background checks, training, and physical requirements
Ability to kneel, crouch, stand for extended periods, and lift up to 40 lbs

Preferred

Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
Direct experience in a Reggio Emilia–informed school as a teacher or administrator
Knowledge of Montessori principles and/or experience in a dual-approach (Reggio/Montessori) setting
Familiarity with Visible Thinking and Conscious Discipline frameworks (training available for the right candidate)
Experience with NAEYC accreditation standards and state licensing processes
Proven track record of recruiting, mentoring, and retaining quality early childhood educators
Proficiency with childcare management software and standard office applications
CDL or willingness to obtain one (occasional van/bus driving may be required)

Salary & Benefits

Compensation & Schedule

Full-time, year-round position
Hours: 7:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (flexibility required for school events)
Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
Excellent professional development support including conferences, workshops, and continuing education
Warm, collaborative, and mission-driven work environment
401(k), subsidized health and life insurance, optional dental and vision insurance
Bi-weekly staff chair massages

Application Procedures

Contact Dr. Cassandra Keller
ckeller@treetopacademy.com

Program Description

About Tree Top Academy

Tree Top Academy is a Reggio Emilia–informed pre-primary and primary school community serving children from two years old through 2nd grade, with plans to extend through 5th grade soon. We hold a strong image of the child as capable, curious, and full of potential. Our classrooms are vibrant places of research where teachers and children learn together through inquiry, collaboration, and interactive dialogue.

Our mission: “We honor and empower children by cultivating social, emotional, and academic growth through inspiring experiences that challenge and extend thinking and wondering.”

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Director who will serve as an administrative and pedagogical leader, mentor, and collaborator—guiding our teaching team, building meaningful partnerships with families, and ensuring our Reggio Emilia and Visible Thinking practices are alive in every classroom.

Contact Info

Dr. Cassandra Keller
ckeller@treetopacademy.com

Job Opportunity