Job Description

Job Description: Head of School

Reports to: Board of Directors

Become a part of a movement to dismantle systematic oppression and inequity in education and promote access to Montessori education for historically resilient communities, especially Black and Brown families! MCS RI is on a mission to inspire children to cultivate a love of learning in a racially and socio-economically inclusive community through Montessori principles.

We are seeking an exceptional educational leader to serve as Head of School for our thriving Montessori community in Providence. The Head of School serves as the chief administrator with ultimate responsibility for all aspects of school operations at Montessori Community School of Rhode Island (MCSRI). This role requires a visionary leader who embodies Montessori principles and can guide our school community toward continued growth and excellence while maintaining the authenticity and integrity of the Montessori method. The Head of School reports directly to the Board of Directors and works collaboratively with specialized staff to ensure educational excellence, operational efficiency, and institutional sustainability. The Head of School will work full-time during regular school office hours, 8:30am-4:30pm, with occasional evening and weekend commitments for events and activities.

School Context

MCSRI currently serves approximately 38 students across toddler and primary programs. We anticipate growth in the future and currently have 12 staff members.

Responsibilities include:

Strategic Leadership & Institutional Vision

• Execute the school's strategic vision and mission in collaboration with the Board of Directors
• Lead long-term planning while preserving Montessori authenticity and advancing social justice values
• Represent the school in Montessori, educational, and community networks
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and national regulations

• Conduct regular assessments and implement continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop organizational growth strategies to expand access to high-quality Montessori programming
• Oversee facilities planning and capital improvements supporting the prepared environment concept
• Implement Board-established policies and provide regular institutional reports

Educational Leadership & Academic Excellence

• Ensure delivery of high-quality, authentic Montessori education aligned with established standards and best practices
• Maintain compliance with American Montessori Society (AMS) or Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) accreditation requirements
• Foster a school culture that promotes child-centered learning, independence, and respect for individual development
• Monitor and evaluate educational outcomes using Montessori-appropriate assessment methods

• Supervise all teaching staff to ensure effective implementation of high-quality, anti-bias Montessori curriculum
• Support curriculum development and implementation across all program levels, including social justice components
• Ensure all classroom environments maintain Montessori materials and prepared environment standards

• Oversee professional development programs aligned with Montessori principles and inclusive pedagogy

Human Resources & Staff Leadership

• Recruit, hire, evaluate, and develop qualified Montessori-credentialed teachers and support staff

• Foster a collaborative work environment embodying Montessori philosophy and inclusive values
• Implement mentoring programs, professional growth processes, and conduct classroom observations with constructive feedback
• Supervise and evaluate the Director of Operations and Director of Advancement and Enrollment
• Set annual performance goals and conduct regular performance reviews for both directors
• Ensure operational and advancement functions align with school mission and educational priorities
• Approve major initiatives and expenditures within established parameters

Professional Development

• Provide training opportunities aligned with Montessori principles and anti-bias pedagogy
• Support staff in maintaining and advancing Montessori credentials
• Ensure all staff understand and implement the school's mission and values

Financial & Operational Management

• Partner with financial partners and Board of Directors to develop annual operating budgets and ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainable practices
• Oversee tuition policies, financial aid programs, and revenue diversification strategies supporting equitable access and long-term sustainability
• Collaborate with Director of Operations on business operations and student-facing operations including facilities, technology, support services, and day-to-day school management
• Collaborate with Director of Advancement and Enrollment to guide efforts expanding access for diverse populations, particularly underserved communities
• Ensure appropriate insurance, legal compliance, and risk management protocols
• Oversee crisis management and emergency response procedures

Community Engagement & External Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with students, families, and the broader school community
• Lead parent education initiatives supporting understanding of Montessori philosophy and practices
• Serve as primary spokesperson and advocate for the school
• Manage crisis communications and conflict resolution effectively
• Engage with neighborhood groups, local organizations, educational networks, and Montessori professional organizations to foster partnerships aligned with school values
• Represent the school at conferences, events, and professional development opportunities

Board Relations & Governance

• Report directly to and collaborate effectively with the Board of Directors
• Provide regular, comprehensive reports on school performance, challenges, and opportunities
• Support board development and governance best practices

Facilitate clear communication between board, staff, and school community
Implement board policies while providing professional recommendations for institutional advancement

Requirements:

• Bachelor's/Master's degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
• Montessori Teacher Certification or extensive experience with Montessori philosophy and curriculum
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive leadership and management experience, preferably in an educational setting, with at least 3 years in a Montessori school
• Meets the Education Coordinator qualifications under RI DHS regulations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated success in leading and managing a team
• Demonstrated experience with leading institutional growth, staff development, and sustainability initiatives
• Demonstrated success in financial management

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience serving diverse, socio-economically varied communities
• Experience with Montessori school accreditation processes
• Master’s Degree plus experience in early childhood education
• Familiarity with Quickbooks or similar accounting software
• Bi-Lingual in English and Español (a plus, not required)

Personal Attributes:

• Mission Alignment: Passionate advocate for child-centered education and Montessori principles
• Leadership Style: Collaborative approach with ability to build consensus and inspire others
• Integrity: Strong ethical foundation in all professional interactions
• Adaptability: Resilience in managing complex organizational challenges
• Growth Mindset: Commitment to ongoing professional development and lifelong learning
• Reflective Practice: Ongoing self-reflection and improvement mindset

What You Add to MCS RI Culture:

• Creativity and Innovation
• Your Full Self Is Welcome Here
• Transparency & Honesty
• Passion for ABAR & Accessible Education Advocacy

Application

Please send a thoughtful resume and cover letter to info@mcsri.org

Start Date: June 2025

Salary: $70-80K

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