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Ankeny, IA -
School Director
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Full-Time

Job Description

Potential candidates must be organized, detail-orientated, self-motivated, reliable, and able to lead in a fast-paced, highly professional environment.

Potential Directors must have:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
  • 2 years' experience in a licensed Early Childhood setting.
  • 1 year of managerial experience in a licensed Early Childhood setting preferred.
  • Have working knowledge of state specific licensing requirements, National Accreditation guidelines, and early childhood development teaching and assessment strategies.

 

Salary range: $61,000-$67,000/year

Compensation includes monthly bonus potential based on performance of the school

Are you passionate about making a positive impact? Join us!

Working with us means not only enjoying your role but also witnessing the joy of learning in every child. If you are dedicated to inspiring, encouraging, and fostering a child's love for learning on a daily basis, we invite you to become a valued leader of our school family!

Joining New Horizon Academy means...

  • Enjoying our well-equipped and inviting school environment.
  • Thriving in a dynamic and friendly workplace.
  • Collaborating with a team that is caring and dedicated.
  • Receiving support and encouragement from our experienced home office staff.
  • You'll be the go-to leader for your school, shaping the educational experience with your expertise!

 

What sets New Horizon Academy apart:

  • With a legacy spanning over fifty years, New Horizon Academy stands as a forefront leader in early care and education.
  • A commitment to a culture of continuous improvement, where decisions prioritize the well-being of children and our staff.
  • Passionate advocacy for increased national, state, and local early childhood resources.
  • Recognizing the critical importance of a child's first five years for social and emotional brain development, making our work essential!

 

Join us in making a lasting impact on the crucial early years of a child's life.

We are looking for someone who. . .

  • Is willing to learn and grow as a leader.
  • Has a passion for working with young children.
  • Can satisfy the Applicant Background Study required by state regulations.
  • Has documentation of U.S. citizenship or eligibility to work in the U.S.

 

We are proud to offer a complete benefits package, and exciting perks which include...

  • Company sponsored Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Access to supplementary benefits like Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • 401K with company match
  • Competitive PTO offerings
  • Generous childcare discount
  • Employee and family referral bonuses
  • Potential to earn quarterly bonuses.
  • Monthly Cell Phone Reimbursement
  • Opportunities for career growth
  • Ongoing, paid professional development opportunities.
  • Tuition Reimbursement for BA and MA degrees in ECE or related field.
  • and much more!

          APPLY TODAY!

          E.O.E

          Quality Daycare and Preschool in Ankeny

          Explore our brand-new daycare, preschool, and pre-kindergarten programs in Ankeny, Iowa! We opened our doors in February 2025 to children and families in Ankeny and surrounding areas. Conveniently located off US 69 and NW 36th Street near Rock Creek Elementary, enrollment is available for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Each of our infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-kindergarten classrooms utilizes a research-based curriculum that helps students build social-emotional, cognitive, language, and motor skills while integrating STEAM concepts to nurture innovation and exploration. While we are currently undergoing NAEYC accreditation, which requires us to be open for at least one year, we remain dedicated to providing the highest standards of education and care for young children. We can’t wait for you to check out New Horizon Academy Ankeny! Schedule a tour today to meet our dedicated teachers and staff, see our brand-new classrooms and facilities, and witness high-quality early education programs in action!

          Awards and Accolades

          25% Off Your First 12 Weeks

          Enroll before 6/26/26 and receive a 25% off your child’s first 12 weeks!

          *Newly enrolled families only. Ankeny location only. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Not valid for summer-only enrollment. Offer must be requested by the first day of enrollment and may only be used during the first twelve weeks. Must pay registration fee in full and start attending by 6/26/26. Account must be paid in full at all times, or promotion will become invalid. Based on availability.

          Schedule a Tour

          Meet Our Ankeny School Director

          BIO

          My husband and I share a home with our three children and two dogs. When I’m not fulfilling my role as “Mrs. Baker” at work, I’m living the busy mom life with our kids, enjoying watching them grow into their independent selves and cheering them on at their activities. I love shopping, decorating, cooking, and I’m a frequent flier to Nashville, TN.

          Education – University of Northern Iowa

          Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 16+

          What do you like about early childhood?

          Working in the field of early childhood is incredibly rewarding. You get to see the lightbulbs go off in their little minds when they make connections. You get to be a part of their milestones—big and small, mental and physical—and contribute to something so important for families. The best part is that, even though it’s a significant role, it can still be silly and fun!

          What makes your school unique?

          We are one of the few New Horizon Academy schools in Iowa with a mother’s room. We are located in the northern part of Ankeny, with easy access from surrounding towns. Our school has welcoming staff and brand-new equipment, ready to support children’s growth and development!

          What is your favorite children’s book?

          “When Sophie Gets Angry – Really, Really Angry…” by Molly Bang

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          BIO

          I am a busy mom of four living my husband, four children, two cats, and a dog! When I’m not at NHA, I am supporting my four children at all of their events. I enjoy baking, camping, and supporting Ava’s Way Foundation in honor of brave my niece, Ava Hutchinson who is forever 11.

          I cared for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers for almost a decade in my in-home childcare until eventually becoming a preschool teacher. Caring for children has always been so rewarding to me as it is such an important role and an honor to be trusted to do so. Plus, who doesn’t love some good baby snuggles?

          Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 17+

          What do you like about early childhood?

          I love seeing the excitement when a new skill is learned. The children are so excited to grow and learn. It’s the best feeling when you see them light up after conquering something new.

          What makes your school unique?

          The positivity is 100%. All our staff strives for good vibes and a positive environment.

          What is your favorite children’s book?

          “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein

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          Employee Testimonials
          http://Jessi%20Grittner,%20Senior%20Conscious%20Discipline%20Specialist%20at%20New%20Horizon%20Academy

          “It’s a great opportunity for people who are creative and love to be lifelong learners.”

          Jessi G., Senior Conscious Discipline Specialist
          http://Emilia%20Smith,%20Teacher%20at%20New%20Horizon%20Academy

          “I’ve built so many relationships with families and children at New Horizon Academy.”

          Emilia S., Teacher
          http://Kami%20Thompson,%20District%20Manager%20at%20New%20Horizon%20Academy

          “All decisions are made to benefit the children, employees, or parents.”

          Kami T., District Manager
          http://Tracey%20Douthard,%20Director%20at%20New%20Horizon%20Academy

          “New Horizon Academy pays for your education!”

          Tracey D., Assistant Director

          Our Learning Programs

          We absolutely love this daycare! From the start, everyone has been so kind, caring, and welcoming. What really makes me happy is how much my 3 year old has blossomed. He was at a different daycare for several months and never opened up there, but within days at New Horizon Academy, he’s like a new kid!… chatting about his friends and teacher, excited to go every morning, and even asking if he can go on his off days. It makes my heart so happy to see him thriving. The whole place just has a great vibe— organized and professional, but still relaxed and comfortable for both kids and parents. I feel totally at ease dropping my kids off every day, and that peace of mind is everything. I couldn’t be more thankful!

          — Raquel E., New Horizon Academy Ankeny parent

          If you are considering New Horizon Academy, you’ve found the right place! We were SO nervous to send our 2 year old to daycare for the first time, but New Horizon Academy in Ankeny has exceeded our expectations! All of the staff here are so kind and take amazing care of the kids.

          — Kenzie L., New Horizon Academy Ankeny parent

          I highly recommend New Horizon Academy! My son is in the toddler class, and he is absolutely thriving. He loves his teachers, who are very hands-on with him. They send updates on the app frequently, so I get to see what he is doing throughout the day—and when I see pictures of him playing and smiling, I know I chose the right place for him. He also comes home saying new words every day, and it lights up my face. NHA is beyond amazing!

          — Alexis A., New Horizon Academy Ankeny parent

          We could not be happier with New Horizon Academy Ankeny! My children are absolutely in love with their teachers. The building is beautiful, and we love the great room. My 3-year-old is finally trying new foods again, as their menu offers more than just “kid food” and meals are provided in a low-stress, no-pressure environment. The directors are so dedicated to their school, staff, and kids.

          — Maggie A., New Horizon Academy Ankeny parent

          Helping Families with Childcare Costs

          At New Horizon Academy, families can access a wide range of resources, including subsidized tuition and financial aid programs, to make daycare costs more affordable.
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