Trenholm Road United Methodist Preschool (TRUMPS) is seeking a dynamic, organized, and nurturing Preschool Director to lead our licensed weekday ministry program. TRUMPS is a vital outreach of TRUMC, providing a loving, faith-based environment for infants through after-school-aged children. The Director serves as the top-level administrator of the preschool and after-school program – ensuring regulatory compliance, program excellence, staff leadership, fiscal responsibility, and positive relationships with families and the church community.
We’re looking for a leader who balances professionalism with warmth, detail with vision, and leadership with compassion.
Key Responsibilities: Regulatory Requirements & Program Standards
- Provide executive-level leadership for all TRUMPS operations and personnel
- Ensure full compliance with all DSS licensing regulations and internal program standards
- Uphold and implement the policies outlined in the Parent and Staff Handbook
- Conduct daily classroom visits and maintain quality benchmarks using ITERS and ECERS
- Report any suspected cases of child abuse/neglect as mandated
- Develop and maintain emergency and disaster preparedness plans
Personnel Management
- Build and support a productive and positive staff culture
- Recruit, interview, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate all staff
- Address personnel concerns, including probation or termination when necessary
- Lead monthly staff meetings to communicate, train, and encourage collaboration
Financial Oversight
- Manage payroll processing for approximately 25 staff members
- Track tuition payments, prepare deposits, and manage accounts receivable/payable
- Communicate with families about tuition concerns and fees
- Operate within the approved budget and assist with annual budget preparation
Health & Safety
- Enforce and supervise health and safety protocols
- Ensure all staff maintain current CPR/First Aid training
- Conduct monthly fire and evacuation drills
- Provide a safe, secure, and healthy environment for children and staff
Family Engagement & Communication
- Foster strong, positive relationships with families
- Keep parents informed through monthly newsletters, emails, and direct communication
- Lead parent/teacher conference coordination using Teaching Strategies and ASQ tools
- Offer tours to prospective families when the Assistant Director is unavailable
- Support parenting through resources and open-door availability
Church Collaboration
- Maintain TRUMPS as a ministry of Trenholm Road UMC
- Participate in weekly TRUMC staff meetings
- Coordinate use of shared church facilities, materials, and calendar
Board & Program Leadership
- Serve as liaison to the TRUMPS/ASC Advisory Board; provide monthly Director’s Reports
- Attend and support board meetings (3rd Monday of each month, 5:30 PM)
- Offer strategic insight and policy recommendations
Facilities & Curriculum Management
- Maintain an inviting, well-equipped learning environment inside and outside
- Oversee purchasing of supplies, equipment, and curriculum materials
Community & Professional Development
- Represent TRUMPS positively in the local and broader community
- Attend the annual SCAEYC Conference and complete DSS-required continuing education hours (20+ hrs/year)
- Stay current in early childhood best practices and maintain a professional resource library
Special Events
- Plan and lead the annual Spring Fling and Christmas Program (some evening hours required)
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
- Minimum of 3 years in a preschool leadership or administrative role
- Strong knowledge of DSS regulations, ITERS/ECERS, and early childhood best practices
- Financial management experience preferred
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to complete)
- Warmth, professionalism, and a passion for young children
- Must reside in the Columbia, SC area – no relocation assistance provided
Why Join TRUMPS?
At TRUMPS, we’re more than a preschool – we’re a joyful, Christ-centered community. As Director, you’ll be joining a team committed to nurturing the spiritual, emotional, and academic growth of children while supporting working families. You’ll also be embraced by a church family that values your leadership and the ministry you provide.
How to apply
Interested applicants should email a resume and cover letter to: sprc@trumc.org.
