Head of School

Guidedstudies; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off and holidays

Paid professional development

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Travel to Montessori conferences

Dedicated ownership team

Job summary

A well-established educational institution in Charlotte, NC is looking for a Head of School to oversee daily operations and embody Montessori principles. The role requires a leader with strong communication and organizational skills, capable of mentoring teachers and engaging with the community. Candidates should ideally have a Bachelor's degree, with a preference for Master's credentials, plus at least five years of educational leadership experience. The position promises a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of school leadership or educational administration experience, preferably Montessori.
• Ability to foster a culture of collaboration and growth among staff and students.
• Commitment to long-term leadership and the growth of the school.
• Demonstrated success mentoring educators and supporting professional growth.
• Calm, confident presence grounded in kindness, accountability, and respect.
• Commitment to long-term leadership and growth of Charlotte Montessori School.
• Benefits include PTO/holidays, professional development, travel to Montessori conferences, medical/dental/vision insurance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations ensuring the school's mission is reflected.
• Mentor and coach teachers to elevate instructional quality.
• Partner in strategic planning, budgeting, and policies.
• Recruit, retain, and develop educators aligned with Montessori values.
• Partner with leadership on strategic planning, budgeting, and policies.
• Foster a culture of kindness, collaboration, and growth for each child.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Mentoring educators

Montessori leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree or Montessori credential

Job description

We have been honored by our longtime and dear friends at Charlotte Montessori School to assist in the search for their next Head of School, beginning in Summer 2026.

Charlotte Montessori School is a thriving, family-owned, and long-established Montessori community, serving 206 children ages fifteen months through kindergarten in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina. For more than five decades, the school has earned a reputation for excellence, warmth, and authenticity—guided by deep respect for children and an unwavering commitment to Montessori principles.

Located in the historic Dilworth neighborhood, the school is surrounded by tree-lined streets, charming historic homes, family-friendly parks, and a strong sense of connection. Dilworth blends small-town charm with the energy of city life: families walk to local shops and cafés, and children grow up in a vibrant, welcoming environment. It is an ideal setting for a Montessori school rooted in respect, relationship, and lifelong learning.

Charlotte Montessori School is a year-round, family-friendly program, open from 7:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., providing consistency and care that support both children and families. The school is deeply respected and well-established and is seeking a Head of School who will honor its legacy while guiding the community into its next chapter of stability and growth.

This is a meaningful opportunity for a dedicated leader to make Charlotte Montessori School their professional home—investing fully in the mission, people, and long-term success of the school.

Position Overview

The Head of School serves as the chief operating officer of Charlotte Montessori School, overseeing daily operations and ensuring that the school’s mission, philosophy, and culture are reflected throughout every aspect of school life.

This is a year‑round leadership position requiring a thoughtful, steady leader who can balance operational oversight with hands‑on mentorship, community engagement, and relationship‑building.

The Head of School works collaboratively with the Executive Director and Owners on major strategic and financial decisions, while independently managing day‑to‑day operations with confidence, integrity, and sound judgment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the school community with warmth, respect, and transparent communication
• Oversee all aspects of daily operations, including staffing, program quality, compliance, and parent relations
• Mentor and coach teachers to strengthen classroom practice and elevate instructional quality
• Recruit, retain, and develop exceptional educators aligned with Montessori values
• Partner with the Executive Director and Owners on strategic planning, budgeting, and policies
• Foster a culture of kindness, collaboration, and commitment to each child’s growth and independence
• Oversee admissions, communication, and professional development systems
• Build trust and engagement with families and the broader Montessori community

Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree and/or MACTE, AMS or AMI Montessori credential preferred
• Minimum of five years of school leadership or educational administration experience (Montessori experience strongly preferred)
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated success mentoring educators and supporting professional growth
• Calm, confident presence grounded in kindness, accountability, and respect
• Commitment to long‑term leadership and the continued growth of Charlotte Montessori School
• Charlotte Montessori School offers a supportive and comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Paid time off and holidays
• Paid professional development and travel to Montessori conferences
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Dedicated ownership team
• Opportunity to grow within a respected, mission‑driven Montessori community

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal Head of School brings a steady, thoughtful presence to every situation. They are a hands‑on leader who listens deeply, mentors intentionally, and inspires trust. They take joy in developing teachers, strengthening classrooms, and nurturing a cohesive community where children, staff, and families thrive together.

Above all, they recognize and respect the legacy of Charlotte Montessori School—and are ready to build upon its tradition of excellence with integrity, vision, and heart.