Head of School - Elementary/Preschool Principal
Montessori School of Duluth is a small, charming school located in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood in Duluth, MN. This warm, welcoming community seeks a Head of School who is committed to providing quality Montessori education. The nonprofit school began in 1981 with an elementary program, and has grown to include Children’s House (ages 33 months – 5 years) and a toddler community (ages 16 – 33 months) serving between 45-70 children each year.
The Head of School carries out the educational policies established by the Board of Directors and acts within the limits of the financial policy set by them. Within the boundaries of the Board, the HOS creates operational policy, oversees business operations, develops and evaluates student programs, oversees DHS licensing standards, provides training and support to faculty and staff, maintains community relations, and is responsible for day-to-day operations including before- and after-care.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
- Program Management: Supports each individual program and provides continuity among all school programming. Sets and upholds our high AMI Montessori standards. Fosters communication within the school. Oversees smooth day-to-day internal operation.
- Personnel Management: Seeks and hires candidates for teaching and non-teaching positions. Manages compensation, working conditions, discipline, training, and professional development for all school employees.
- Enrollment and Recruitment: Recommends enrollment objectives and methods to achieve them. Establishes standards and procedures for admissions and dismissals. Oversees marketing, recruitment, and admissions.
- Community Relations: Encourages positive, meaningful participation by alumni, parents, and past parents in school events. Liaisons with other educational institutions and associations that share common goals. Offers community outreach and education about the school and the Montessori philosophy. Acts as spokesperson for the school.
- Planning: With guidance and support from the Board, analyzes the needs of the school and creates short-, mid-, and long-term goals and planning.
- Finance: Presents financial plans and annual budgets to the Board. Maintains cost controls to foster efficiency consistent with high standards of education within the limitations of the budget. Makes recommendations for tuition rates and salary adjustments annually. Manages purchases, billing, and accounting.
- Fundraising: Advises the Board on fundraising needs and plans. Coordinates fundraising efforts and events, and grant applications.
- Board Liaison: Brings to the attention of the Board all matters required to keep the board fully informed. Functions as chief advisor to the Board and chief communicator between the staff and the Board. Attends all Board meetings (usually monthly).
- Building Maintenance: Supervises the operation and maintenance of the school’s campus. Recommends changes to maintain standards of appearance and safety. Notifies the Board of any major projects, and upon approval oversees completion.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
- Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, early childhood, educational administration, business management, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- Administrative experience in an educational setting.
- Demonstrated strong communication skills, both written and verbal, in working with staff, volunteers, families, and the wider community.
- Experience working with non-profit organizations and a Board of Directors.
- Demonstrated leadership abilities that build community.
- Qualified candidates must also meet Minnesota Department of Human Services qualifications for Director of a Child Care Center at www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/?id=9503.0031
We strongly prefer that applicants also possess the following qualifications:
- AMI/AMS Montessori certification.
- Experience in AMI/AMS classrooms at either the Primary and/or Elementary levels.
- Involvement in Montessori organizations at local, regional, and/or national levels.
- Proven ability in managing fundraising campaigns and grant applications.
COMPENSATION
This is a full-time, full-year, onsite position. Pay will be commensurate with skills and experience, and competitive with publicly reported regional wages, between $62k-$80k. The Head of School is responsible for obtaining personal health insurance, for example via MNSure, but receives a full range of other benefits including:
- 64 hours sick and safe time
- Up to 2 weeks PTO vacation
- All official school holidays off, including 1-week Winter Break in Feb
- 403b retirement plan with 5% match from the school
- Tuition remission for your own children enrolled at the school, including extended care, extra care days, and summer care.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply, please send your cover letter, résumé/CV, three professional references, and supporting documents to Dr. Michelle Nephew at webmaster@montessoriduluthmn.org. Find out more about Montessori School of Duluth at montessoriduluthmn.org
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Montessori School of Duluth is a non-profit, 501(c) 3 organization. We value, welcome, and celebrate a diverse population. The school treats all students and staff, and applicants for enrollment and employment, without unlawful discrimination as to race, creed, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation.