Wesley School—an established early childhood program in partnership with Restore Austin Church—is seeking a mission-driven, relationship-centered, and forward-thinking Center Director to lead our school into its next chapter of growth and excellence.

If you are a strong leader who believes in play-based learning, high-quality standards, and building a healthy professional culture, we want to meet you.

About Wesley School

Serving families in East Austin since 1986, Wesley School provides a nurturing, play-based environment for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Our program values curiosity, creativity, relationships, and developmentally appropriate practice.

Wesley School is entering a transformational growth phase—refining our educational philosophy, strengthening operational systems, and building long-term sustainability. This is an opportunity to help shape the future of a beloved community school.

The Opportunity

The Center Director is responsible for leading all aspects of the school, including:

Leadership & Culture

• Cultivating a positive, professional, child-centered culture
• Supporting and coaching staff as a collaborative, approachable leader
• Establishing and communicating a clear educational philosophy
• Representing Wesley School with warmth and professionalism

Program Oversight & Quality

• Ensuring excellence in curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Upholding licensing, Texas Rising Star (TRS), and internal quality standards
• Conducting classroom observations and supporting continuous improvement

Family & Community Engagement

• Building strong, trusting relationships with families
• Serving as a visible leader on campus and within the East Austin community
• Strengthening Wesley School’s reputation and presence

Strategic Planning & Sustainability

• Building and executing a strategic plan for long-term growth and stability
• Managing enrollment, budgeting, and operations
• Partnering with Restore Austin Church leadership and the Wesley School Board

Qualifications

Required

• Must meet HHSC Minimum Standards qualifications for a Center Director
• Significant early childhood leadership experience
• Strong knowledge of child development, curriculum, licensing, and quality practices
• Demonstrated strength in communication, coaching, and team leadership

Preferred

• Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
• Experience with Texas Rising Star or accredited programs
• Conscious Discipline or similar social-emotional frameworks
• Experience leading programs through quality improvement or cultural change

Who Thrives in This Role

The ideal candidate is:

• Warm, relational, and excellent with communication
• Organized, dependable, and calm under pressure
• A coach who builds up staff rather than “manages down”
• Child-centered and knowledgeable about best practices
• Strategic and able to plan for growth and sustainability
• Excited to be visible in the community and build partnerships

If you’re passionate about high-quality early childhood education and want to lead a school where your leadership truly matters—this is the place for you.

Details

• Full-time, year-round position
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Paid time off and professional development opportunities
• Supportive board and church partnership

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a brief statement of interest to:

[email protected]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.