Position Title: Holy Cross Academy Early Childhood Director

Location: Holy Cross Academy, Archdiocese of St. Louis
Reports To: Head Principal

Position Summary

Holy Cross Academy seeks a faith-filled, mission-driven Preschool Director to lead and grow its early childhood program. The Director is responsible for the overall administration, supervision, and daily operation of the preschool, serving children ages 2–5. Grounded in the mission of Holy Cross Academy and the Archdiocese of St. Louis, the Director fosters a Christ-centered, nurturing environment that supports the spiritual, academic, social, and emotional development of each child.

The Preschool Director works collaboratively with the Head Principal and administrative team to ensure alignment with the school’s vision of forming students in faith, knowledge, and service. The Preschool Director works directly with the Primary School Principal to ensure a seamless transition from preschool to kindergarten.

Mission Alignment

The Preschool Director at Holy Cross Academy:

Promotes a vibrant Catholic identity rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ
Creates a welcoming, faith-filled environment where each child is valued as a child of God
Partners with families as the primary educators of their children
Supports the mission of Holy Cross Academy in forming disciples who serve others

Essential Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Administration

Oversee all aspects of the preschool program, including daily operations, scheduling, and enrollment growth
Develop and implement policies aligned with Archdiocesan guidelines and Missouri state licensing requirements
Maintain full compliance with Missouri DESE and childcare licensing standards
Manage student admissions, registration, and records
Collaborate with the Head Principal on budgeting, staffing, and long-term program planning

Instructional Leadership

Ensure implementation of a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum aligned with Archdiocesan early childhood standards
Support teachers through coaching, classroom observations, and ongoing feedback
Promote best practices in early childhood education, including social-emotional learning and kindergarten readiness
Lead continuous improvement efforts through data-informed decision-making

Faith Formation

Integrate prayer, scripture, and Catholic traditions into daily preschool life
Support age-appropriate catechesis and participation in school and parish liturgies
Model Gospel values in all interactions with children, families, and staff

Staff Supervision

Recruit, hire, and retain high-quality early childhood educators
Provide onboarding, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
Conduct regular staff evaluations in accordance with Archdiocesan policies
Ensure all staff meet Safe Environment and background check requirements

Family & Community Engagement

Build strong, positive relationships with preschool families
Communicate regularly regarding student progress, program updates, and school events
Coordinate parent engagement opportunities and community-building events
Serve as a key ambassador for Holy Cross Academy in promoting the preschool program

Health, Safety & Compliance

Ensure a safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate learning environment
Maintain compliance with all health, safety, and licensing regulations
Oversee emergency preparedness plans and procedures
Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in early childhood education
Demonstrated leadership or administrative experience
Knowledge of Missouri preschool licensing requirements
Commitment to supporting the Catholic mission of Holy Cross Academy
Practicing Catholic in good standing

Preferred

Master’s degree in Educational Leadership or related field
Experience in a Catholic school or parish-based preschool

Skills & Competencies

Strong leadership and team-building skills
Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
Deep understanding of child development and early learning practices
Organizational and problem-solving skills
Ability to foster a joyful, faith-centered learning environment

Working Requirements

Full-time, year-round position
Occasional evening and weekend commitments for school and parish events
Active presence in classrooms and school community

Compensation

Salary commensurate with experience and Archdiocesan of St. Louis guidelines
Benefits as determined by Holy Cross Academy

Application Information

Interested candidates should submit resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Ms. Melissa Hunter (mhunter@hca-stl.org).