About Peaks Island Children’s Workshop (PICW)

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)