Founded in 1972, Peaks Island Children’s Workshop (PICW) is a nonprofit, licensed childcare center serving Peaks Island families year-round, with a capacity to enroll up to 20 children. PICW provides a play-based, emergent-curriculum program in a loving, child-centered environment for children from six weeks to four years old. Rooted in the warmth of the island community, the Workshop integrates developmentally appropriate, up-to-date early childhood practices with a strong emphasis on outdoor exploration, independence, and relationship-based learning. PICW is based on Peaks Island, a 15-minute scenic ferry ride from downtown Portland.
Position Overview
The Executive Director is responsible for the overall health, operations, and sustainability of the organization. This role will work with a team of five teachers and the Board of Directors to ensure program excellence, regulatory compliance, financial stewardship, staff development, and strong relationships with families.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership
Partner with Staff and Board of Directors to advance PICW’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term sustainability.
Recruit, hire, supervise, evaluate, and mentor teaching staff.
Ensure appropriate staffing levels, schedules, and professional development.
Serve as the primary liaison and build and sustain relationships between the Board, Staff, families, and community partners.
Program & Educational Quality
Ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for all children.
Oversee implementation of a play-based curriculum aligned with Maine Early Learning and Development Standards (MELDS/ITMELDS).
Operations, Compliance & Facilities
Oversee daily operations and ensure compliance with Maine DHHS licensing rules, MRTQ standards, and accreditation requirements.
Maintain accurate staff and child records.
Lead emergency preparedness planning, drills, and health and safety protocols.
Coordinate facility maintenance and safety checks
Financial Management & Fundraising
Work with the Board to develop and manage the annual budget.
Monitor financial performance, tuition structures, billing, collections, and enrollment capacity.
Work with the Board in identifying and managing grants, grant reporting, and other fundraising activities.
Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in early childhood education and/or childcare leadership.
Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Experience with play-based, child-centered educational models.
Knowledge of Maine childcare licensing, health and safety regulations, and quality standards.
CPR and Pediatric First Aid certification (or ability to obtain)
Founded in 1972, Peaks Island Children’s Workshop (PICW) is a nonprofit, licensed childcare center serving Peaks Island families year-round, with a capacity to enroll up to 20 children. PICW provides a play-based, emergent-curriculum program in a loving, child-centered environment for children from six weeks to four years old. Rooted in the warmth of the island community, the Workshop integrates developmentally appropriate, up-to-date early childhood practices with a strong emphasis on outdoor exploration, independence, and relationship-based learning. PICW is based on Peaks Island, a 15-minute scenic ferry ride from downtown Portland, Maine.
