Executive Director

Mainspring Schools | Austin, Texas

About Mainspring Schools

Mainspring Schools is a high-performing early education nonprofit serving children ages 6 weeks to 5 years in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1941, we are a unique hybrid model combining charter school funding with comprehensive family services. We achieve exceptional outcomes, with kindergarten readiness rates more than twice the regional average, while serving primarily low-income families.

We hold prestigious credentials, including NAEYC accreditation and Texas Rising Star 4-star rating, and employ evidence-based practices, including Trust-Based Relational Interventions (TBRI). Our holistic approach includes onsite scratch-made meals and comprehensive wraparound services for families.

Position Overview

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of Mainspring Schools and reports directly to the Board of Directors. This transformational leadership role requires an exceptional individual who can navigate the complexities of charter school operations, nonprofit management, and excellence in early childhood education while ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develop and execute comprehensive strategic plans aligned with mission and board priorities
• Serve as primary spokesperson to funders, partners, and the community
• Foster innovation in educational programming while maintaining evidence-based practices Position Mainspring as a leader in Austin’s early education ecosystem

Financial Management & Fundraising

• Oversee organizational budget, monitor monthly P&L statements, and pivot strategy to ensure organizational health
• Work with Mainsprings Development Director and staff to develop fundraising strategies for individuals, major donors, foundations, and government grants
• Develop diversified revenue streams to ensure sustainability
• Ensure compliance with charter school and nonprofit financial regulations
• Partner with the board on financial strategy and stewardship

Educational Excellence

• Ensure continued NAEYC accreditation, TRS, and other prestigious designations
• Maintain exceptional kindergarten readiness outcomes
• Champion evidence-based curricula and interventions
• Navigate Texas charter school regulations and compliance
• Partner with our education team on continuous improvement
• Ensure all team members are trained in protocols for licensing requirements

Operations & Team Leadership

• Lead administrative staff in all aspects of finance and operations
• Develop talent and maintain a strong workplace culture
• Ensure operational excellence across all programs
• Build systems for organizational effectiveness
• Address recruitment and retention in a competitive market

Board & Community Relations

• Partner effectively with the Board of Directors
• Build strategic partnerships with community organizations
• Engage families as partners in children’s success
• Represent Mainspring in education and nonprofit forums

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum 7 years progressive leadership experience, with 5+ years in senior management
• Demonstrated success in nonprofit management, preferably in education
• Track record of successful fundraising, including major gifts and grants
• Experience with organizational growth and sustainability planning
• Certified or eligible to be a school director according to the Health and Human Services in the state of Texas

Knowledge & Skills

• Deep commitment to serving diverse communities
• Understanding of early childhood development best practices
• Financial acumen, including budget management and strategic planning
• Excellence in communication with diverse stakeholders
• Data-driven decision-making abilities

Leadership Competencies

• Visionary thinking with pragmatic execution
• Collaborative leadership style that empowers teams
• Resilience and persistence in facing challenges
• Authentic passion for mission and families served
• Political savvy to navigate complex relationships

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in early childhood education sector
• Texas charter school knowledge
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) abilities
• Existing relationships in Austin philanthropic and education communities
• NAEYC accreditation experience

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan with match, professional development support, and flexible PTO.

For more info visit: mainspringschools.org