Boiseko Ikastola is seeking a Director to lead and steward our unique Basque language-immersion program.
This leadership role oversees program operations, staff, curriculum, family engagement, and long-term sustainability—ensuring a warm, high-quality immersion experience grounded in Basque language and culture.
This position is ideal for an experienced early childhood leader who values language immersion, community connection, and culturally rooted education.
If you are interested in applying, we ask you send the following to Annie Gavica, the Executive Director, by February 5, 5pm MST. If you have any questions, please contact Annie here.
- Cover Letter stating why you would be a good fit.
- Recently updated resume.
- 2-3 References
The Boiseko Ikastola Director provides overall leadership and operational oversight for the Basque-language immersion preschool operated as part of the Basque Museum & Cultural Center (BMCC). The Director is responsible for ensuring high-quality educational programming, regulatory compliance, effective staff management, sound financial stewardship, and strong relationships with families and the broader Basque community. Reporting to the Executive Director of the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Ikastola Director establishes goals, guides program development, and ensures that daily operations align with the mission, values, and long-term sustainability of Boiseko Ikastola.
Key Areas of Responsibility
Program Leadership & Operations
- Provide overall management and direction of preschool operations, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.
- Oversee implementation of the Ikastola’s language immersion model, curriculum framework, and educational philosophy.
- Guide the development, review, and refinement of program policies, handbooks, and operational standards.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, federal, and institutional regulations concerning early childhood education.
Educational Quality & Curriculum Oversight
- Ensure instructional practices align with Basque Government educational guidance, U.S. early learning standards, and best practices in immersion education.
- Support and evaluate curriculum planning to ensure age-appropriate, culturally grounded, and language-rich instruction.
- Oversee enrichment opportunities and special programming that enhance students’ educational and cultural experiences.
Staff Leadership & Professional Development
- Recruit, hire, supervise, and evaluate teaching and support staff.
- Foster a collaborative, professional workplace culture rooted in respect, communication, and shared purpose.
- Support ongoing professional development, training, and licensing compliance for staff.
- Address personnel matters, including performance management and conflict resolution, in coordination with BMCC leadership as appropriate.
Family & Community Engagement
- Serve as the primary liaison between families, staff, and the Basque Museum & Cultural Center.
- Promote clear, consistent communication with parents and caregivers regarding program expectations, policies, and student experiences.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with families, encouraging engagement and trust.
- Represent Boiseko Ikastola within the broader Basque and early childhood education communities.
Financial Oversight & Sustainability
- Oversee the financial operations of the Ikastola in coordination with BMCC staff.
- Monitor budget performance, tuition revenue, and expenditures to support fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.
- Participate in budget development, tuition review, and financial planning processes.
- Support fundraising, grant development, and resource-development efforts in collaboration with the Basque Museum & Cultural Center.
Strategic Planning & Growth
- Contribute to strategic planning for the continued development and growth of Boiseko Ikastola.
- Assess enrollment trends, staffing needs, and program capacity to support stable operations.
- Promote the program through outreach, communication, and community visibility efforts.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong organizational and leadership skills with the ability to manage complex programs and priorities.
- Demonstrated experience in early childhood education, program administration, or a related field.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with staff, families, and community partners.
- Knowledge of or interest in language immersion education and culturally grounded programming.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating within a larger organizational structure.
- Proficiency in Basque is preferred.
Position Details
- Full-time position with a flexible schedule that may include occasional evenings or weekends.
- Reports to the Executive Director of the Basque Museum & Cultural Center.
- Salary range: $51,000-56,000.
Employees of the Basque Museum & Cultural Center receive an employment package that includes a parking pass, health insurance, dental and eye insurance options, 401K options, gym membership option, as well as an opportunity to be part of the only Basque museum and Basque language-immersion preschool outside the Basque Country and work to preserve, promote, and perpetuate Basque history, language, and culture.
