Position Title: Director of Development
Reports To: Head of School
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

School Overview

The Children's School, an independent school located in La Jolla, California, inspires children from toddlers through grade eight with a rich academic and social curriculum. The Children's School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools. To learn more about The Children’s School, please visit www.tcslj.org.

Position Summary

The Director of Development is a strategic and relationship-driven leader responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive fundraising program to support the school’s mission and long-term sustainability. This individual works closely with the Head of School, Leadership Team, and parent community to cultivate a culture of philanthropy and secure annual, major, and planned gifts.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan aligned with the school’s strategic priorities
• Partner with the Head of School and Director of Finance to set and achieve annual fundraising goals
• Lead and support Board development committee

Fundraising & Advancement

• Oversee all aspects of the Annual Fund, including strategy, messaging, and volunteer engagement
• Cultivate and steward major gift prospects and donors
• Manage donor relations and stewardship programs to ensure strong retention and engagement

Community Engagement

• Build meaningful relationships with parents, alumni, grandparents, and community partners
• Support and enhance a culture of giving across all constituencies
• Collaborate with admissions and communications to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment

Events & Communications

• Oversee fundraising events, including gala and donor gatherings
• Partner on development-related communications, including newsletters, impact reports, and campaigns

Operations

• Manage development office operations, including database oversight, gift processing, and reporting
• Supervise development staff and coordinate volunteer efforts
• Track and analyze fundraising performance metrics

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
• 5+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit setting
• Proven success in major gifts, annual giving, and campaign management
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to engage and inspire a wide range of stakeholders
• High level of discretion, professionalism, and integrity

Preferred Attributes

• Passion for independent school education and child development
• Experience working with boards and volunteer leadership
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on, collaborative approach

Compensation & Benefits

$140,000 - $200,000
Competitive compensation package, including health benefits, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of references to John Fowler, Head of School. jfowler@tcslj.org

Minimum three years experience in development with an independent  school or non-profit organization.

About The Children's School

The Children's School, located in La Jolla, California, inspires children from toddlers through grade eight with a rich academic program and engaging social curriculum. The school seeks to inspire each child’s unique potential and desire for life-long learning.

Connections working at The Children's School