VPK Director at BridgePrep Academy in Champions Gate, FL

VPK Director

Location: BridgePrep Academy ChampionsGate, 1201 S Goodman Rd, ChampionsGate, FL 33896

Reports To: Principal or Campus Administrator

Compensation: $45,145.00 – $55,000.00 Base Salary + $5,000.00 Stipend + up to $5,000.00 Supplemental Pay

Job Type: Full Time (Comprehensive Benefits Package Included)

JOIN OUR TEAM!

SMART Management and BridgePrep Academy are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and passionate VPK Director to serve as the instructional and operational leader of our Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program. Reporting to the Principal or Campus Administrator, you will lead early childhood teachers, oversee daily program operations, ensure 100% state regulatory compliance, and create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that fully prepares young learners for kindergarten success.

ABOUT SMART MANAGEMENT & BRIDGEPREP ACADEMY

SMART Management is a mission-driven education management organization supporting high-quality Pre-K–12 charter schools across Florida. We partner closely with school leaders and governing boards to build strong academic, operational, and cultural systems that help schools—and educators—thrive long term.

BridgePrep Academy, the largest network supported by SMART Management, serves students across 21 schools and is united by a bold mission: to provide a rigorous, student-centered academic experience enriched by an extended Spanish language program. At BridgePrep, educators are part of a collaborative, growth-oriented community where high expectations, strong support, and a deep belief in every child’s potential guide our work each day. Learn more at smartmgnt.com or bridgeprepacademy.com.

OUR CORE VALUES & CULTURE

At SMART Management and BridgePrep Academy, our work is guided by five lived core values:

• "And How Are the Children?": Decisions prioritize student learning, safety, and well-being.

• Big Rocks First: Focus on instructional quality and student outcomes above all else.

• Own It: Take responsibility for student learning and classroom results.

• Expect More: Maintain high expectations for all students.

• Results Matter: Use data to reflect, adjust, and continuously improve instruction.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional Leadership

• Ensure the implementation of developmentally appropriate, standards-aligned early learning instruction with curriculum fidelity.

• Coach and support VPK teachers through regular observations, modeling, and actionable feedback cycles.

• Oversee lesson planning, assessments, and instructional practices to monitor student progress and drive kindergarten readiness.

Program Operations & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all Florida VPK regulations, Department of Children and Families (DCF) licensing requirements, and health/safety standards.

• Maintain precise attendance records, required staff-to-student ratios, and state documentation.

• Prepare for and successfully lead all program audits, inspections, and monitoring visits.

Family & Community Engagement

• Build collaborative relationships with families as true partners in early learning.

• Communicate regularly regarding student progress, behavioral growth, and program expectations with professionalism and urgency.

• Facilitate family orientation, onboarding, parent meetings, and campus events.

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend and actively participate in campus leadership meetings and network-wide professional development.

• Submit all administrative reports, data submissions, and compliance filings on time.

• Uphold all organizational policies, operational procedures, and professional standards.

MEASURABLE YEAR 1 SUCCESS METRICS

• 85%+ of VPK students demonstrate kindergarten readiness on state and program assessments.

• 100% compliance across all VPK, DCF licensing, and state audit requirements.

• 90%+ staff retention with demonstrated instructional growth across the VPK teaching team.

• Maintain strong program enrollment targets and high daily student attendance.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited educational institution.

• Certification & Credentials:

  • Valid or eligible Florida Teaching Certification.

  • Active Florida Child Care Director Credential with VPK Endorsement.

• Mindset: Strong operational acumen and deep alignment with SMART Management and BridgePrep Academy’s mission, values, and student-first culture.

• Background Screening: Successful completion of a Level 2 background screening through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse, in accordance with House Bill 531.

Candidate Reference Requirement:

• All final candidates will be required to arrange three professional reference checks, with at least one reference from a former direct manager.

APPLY TODAY!

Take the lead in building strong academic and social-emotional foundations for young learners. Apply today through our mobile-friendly application to join the leadership team at BridgePrep Academy!