Preschool Assistant Director

About Smart Cookies

Smart Cookies preschools serve families with children ages six weeks to five years old in the Charleston area. We are small enough to know every child and family by name, yet big enough to offer dynamic classrooms, enriching programs, and intentional care that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond. With two schools located on Savannah Highway, we help parents choose the right fit for their child’s age and developmental stage. Our mission is to create a warm, joyful environment where children learn, grow, and develop strong foundations for life.

Our core values are: Quality, Integrity, Service, and Community.

Smart Cookies is proud to be part of Lantern Learning Group, a purpose-led network of preschools united by shared values and a commitment to exceptional early childhood education. Being part of this larger family provides our team with added resources, professional growth opportunities, and long-term stability—while allowing each school to maintain the unique culture and identity that makes it special in its community.

About the Role

As Assistant Director, you’ll help lead a high-quality early childhood program while making every family feel safe and confident in our care. You’ll receive a daily fringe benefit—lots of hugs, smiles, and laughter!

You’ll support the School Director in managing operations, enrollment, compliance, and food service, while helping build a joyful, organized, and mission-aligned center.

Key Responsibilities

• Support compliance with federal, state, and local licensing regulations
• Promote enrollment through tours, CRM follow-up, and community engagement
• Maintain accurate records for attendance, expenses, and Title XX
• Plan and conduct staff training on nutrition, civil rights, and compliance
• Create staff schedules and support daily workflow
• Assist with classroom activities, field trips, and special events
• Manage supplies, equipment, and Procare system functions
• Prepare reports for HHSC and other agencies
• Help resolve staff concerns and support team culture
• Plan family engagement activities and foster strong relationships

What We’re Looking For

• Passion for early childhood education and Christian values
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Experience with CACFP, licensing, and center operations preferred
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities
• Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced environment

All hourly employees receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Employer covers 70% of employee medical premiums
• FSA/DCA enrollment options
• Voluntary Dental & Vision coverage
• Voluntary Life, Disability, Accident & Critical Illness coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Pet Insurance
• 80 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) – accruals start day 1
• 13–15 paid holidays annually
• 2 days of paid Bereavement Leave
• Childcare tuition discounts
• Scholarship program
• Lantern Learning Group Paid Family Leave (LLGPFL)
• 401(k) with 6% match; no wait time for vesting once eligible
• CDA Program Assistance

 Requirements

Required Education and Experience

• Meet DFPS minimum education and experience caregiver requirements.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Two years of experience in childcare administration
• Five years of experience in curriculum implementation
• Sales and/or marketing experience

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

• Successful completion of an FBI and SLED background check
  
• Annual completion of 15 hours of training, including:
  
  • 5 hours in child growth and development
    
  • 5 hours in curriculum activities for children
    
  • Remaining hours in health, safety, or other child care-related topics
    
• Current Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED certifications
  
• If transporting children, a valid Class C driver's license with a clean Department of Public Safety record, plus 2 hours of transportation training annually