Temple Sinai Nursery School (TSNS) is a NAEYC-accredited, play-based early childhood program serving just under 100 children ages 18 months through Pre-K. TSNS is an integral part of a vibrant Reform Jewish synagogue in Northwest Washington, DC, and grounded in Jewish values. The Temple and TSNS are also committed to inclusion and diversity, and all children and staff are welcome regardless of their background.
Our program is inspired by Reggio Emilia principles and guided by a deep respect for children as capable, curious learners. Classrooms emphasize play, exploration, and meaningful relationships, with educators thoughtfully designing environments and experiences that support each child’s development. We also offer a summer camp for those families seeking year round childcare and enrichment programs for their children.
At TSNS, children, families, and educators form a warm and connected community. We are committed to fostering a joyful, inclusive environment where children develop a strong sense of belonging, and where educators are supported as reflective practitioners and lifelong learners.
Temple Sinai Nursery School offers competitive salaries, benefits, and professional development opportunities. We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status. Employment at Temple Sinai is at-will.
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Position Type: 30–35 hours/week, 12-month position
Salary Range: $70,000 – $80,000 commensurate with education, experience, hours
Typical Hours: 8am to 3pm
Reports to: Director of Early Childhood Education
The Assistant Director plays a central role in ensuring strong classroom practice, supporting teachers, and fostering a nurturing, inclusive environment for children and families. As the primary supervisor and mentor of the teaching staff, this individual remains closely connected to classroom life while contributing to the growth and evolution of TSNS programming.
In addition, the Assistant Director will help lead the continued development of our summer camp program. Historically a vibrant and well-attended part of TSNS, camp was reintroduced in summer 2025 following a five-year pause due to the pandemic and a major campus construction project. As the school has since expanded its academic-year offerings, including a longer day, we are at an exciting moment to thoughtfully reimagine camp for the TSNS of today. The Assistant Director will play a key role in leading a collaborative process to evaluate the program and design an updated model for summer 2027 that aligns with our play-based, relationship-centered approach.
Staff & Classroom Support
Student & Family Support
Summer Camp Development
Program Development & Strategic Initiatives
Program Implementation
Operations & Compliance
This role requires the ability to actively engage in a preschool environment, including moving quickly between classrooms and playground spaces, lifting and carrying young children when needed, and participating in all aspects of daily school routines.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and letter of interest to Melanie Douglass at by May 8, 2026.
As part of the interview process, candidates will be invited to lead a brief professional development experience with faculty members.
At TSNS, teachers work together to facilitate a culture of collaboration, curiosity, wonder, community, and joy. We offer a vibrant learning environment for children ages 18 months to 5 years, focused first and foremost on supporting social-emotional development and learning through hands-on exploration and play. Our faculty is the heart of our program, shaping an exciting array of experiences for learning and growth, fostering the development of deep friendships, and forging trusting connections between home and school.
Temple Sinai Nursery School offers competitive salaries, benefits, and professional development opportunities. We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Qualified applicants for Teaching positions will have an Associate’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (minimum of 12 semester hours in early childhood); at least two years of experience working in a preschool setting; an interest in learning more about the Reggio Approach; and a desire to work in a warm Reform Jewish community (but do not need to identify as Jewish).
TO APPLY: Please send resume and letter of interest to TSNS Director, Melanie Douglass, at .