Head of School

Metro Consulting Services, Montessori Leadership Searches; Yakima (WA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Yakima is seeking a qualified Head of School to lead with a commitment to the Montessori method. The role involves establishing trust within the community, driving strategic initiatives, and maintaining high educational standards. Ideal candidates should possess a Montessori credential and administrative experience, particularly in a Montessori setting. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a well-established school with rich community ties.

Qualifications

• At least three years of administrative experience in a Montessori school.
• Ability to balance quality Montessori education with school operations.
• Experience working with a governing board preferred.

Responsibilities

• Establish trust and cultivate relationships in the school community.
• Communicate and implement a strategic plan with the Board.
• Oversee quality Montessori education alongside school operations.

Skills

Montessori leadership experience

Strategic planning

Community engagement

Diversity and inclusion commitment

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Montessori credential

Advanced degrees in related field

Job description

The Montessori School of Yakima (MSY) is seeking a qualified candidate for its Head of School (HOS) position beginning in the summer of 2026.

The Montessori School of Yakima was founded in 1965 under the guidance of a dedicated group of parents who wanted to bring the Montessori method of education to the children in the Yakima Valley. MSY is centrally located in the city where it rents a large amount of space from a church while it searches for a forever home. The school operates in accordance with the educational philosophy and methods developed by Maria Montessori. Today, the school offers educational experiences for children ages 18 months – 14 years and continues to provide an exceptional Montessori learning environment

Over 33 faculty/staff support program offerings that include Toddler through Middle School for approximately 140 children and youth. The facility houses eight classrooms on two floors: 2 Toddler, 4 Primary, 1 Lower Elementary, and 1 Upper Elementary/Middle School. The capable administrative staff include a student support specialist, a development director, a counselor, a grant writer/social media lead, and an office manager/bookkeeper. The school has a significant wait list in Toddler and Primary Programs. Music, art, and Spanish enrich the curriculum for students; before/after care programs are provided.

The next Head of School at MSY will join an established, successful 60-year-old school with an exciting vision for future development, growth, and facility expansion. The new HOS must be proficient at building trust and cultivating relationships to establish themselves as a trusted leader and voice in the school community. A commitment to continuation of the school’s values is key, built on the loyalty of the school community. MSY’s graduates have returned to the school as employees, as well as legacy parents, demonstrating the strong lifelong connections that MSY has made within this community. The person chosen must become grounded in the history and culture of MSY and then partner with the Board for a vision of further sustainability and growth.

The ideal candidate is an experienced Montessori school leader who is versed in the business aspects of running a school. The ability to balance the oversight of quality Montessori education with school operations is essential.

The new HOS must be a visionary, partnering with an invested and supportive Board, who can communicate and implement a strategic plan. A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is important. The HOS will effectively develop engagement with the community to join in that vision.

Position Requirements

• Montessori credential preferred from AMS or other MACTE-accredited program
• Administrative experience in an educational setting; three years’ experience in administration in a Montessori school preferred
• A Bachelor’s degree is required; advanced degrees in a related field preferred
• Experience with regulatory, personnel, budget, and fiscal management preferred
• Experience working with a governing board preferred

Applications will be received until a qualified candidate is hired.

Interested candidates will submit the following documents via email to Carla Hofland, Consultant, Metro Consulting Services:

• Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee expressing interest in and detailing qualifications for the position
• A current resume
• A statement of educational leadership philosophy (1-2 pages)
• Two examples of writing on a school topic or Montessori educational topic
• Five references (including email addresses and telephone numbers) that can be contacted confidentially)

For more information about this position, please contact: Carla Hofland, Senior Consultant. Metro consulting Services, Montessori Leadership Searches, [e-mail]

If you or someone you know may be interested in this wonderful opportunity to lead an excellent educational institution, please contact us.