Head of School

Site Director | Head of School in San Diego, California, US

Montessori Explorer & Keynote Montessori is part of the Scientia Education Solution family. We have locations in Chula Vista, Hillcrest, San Marcos, fall of 2025 & Oceanside, Escondido, Fall of 2026.

Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, creative learning environment for the whole person. The school provides "Individualized Education" in all areas of the program. Opportunities are provided for students to achieve knowledge and self-worth through freedom and to learn in a way that respects their individual needs. Scientia Education Solution is dedicated to total quality education.

The Scientia Education Solution family of schools' philosophy is to provide an environment that uses the Montessori methodology to unlock the full potential of the child.

Our vision is to provide an authentic Montessori environment for all children regardless of where they come from with respect and dignity. We believe all children are unique and have the potential to flourish when an environment is provided for them.

At Scientia Education Solution family of Montessori schools, we believe that Montessori and early childhood educators from various backgrounds complement the diversity of our community. We offer an environment where you feel empowered, supported, and respected. We expect all our team members to follow our mission and vision by valuing your unique perspective, strengths, teaching style, and background. We want you to feel included and comfortable being your true self. You are equally as important as the children and the families we serve.

We are seeking individuals who align with our mission, vision, and belief. If you believe that you are one who can execute our mission and vision, please apply.

Job Overview : Montessori Explorer and Keynote Montessori are seeking a dedicated and passionate Montessori head of school to join our growing team to lead our toddler and primary classrooms (ages 18 months-12 years old). The ideal candidate is passionate about the Montessori approach to education with a strong background in early childhood education. We are looking for a collaborative, flexible, team-minded, and nurturing individual for this full-time position. Compensation is dependent upon education and experience.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, business, human development, or related field.
• AMI|AMS Credential / Certification (MACTE) in any Montessori age group is a plus or must take the Montessori training upon hire.
• Commitment to the Montessori Method and its practices.
• Site Supervisor Child Development Permit. Must have 24 ECE / CD units with core courses, plus 6 administration units and 6 adult supervision units.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience working as a site / head of school position.
• Understanding environmental rating scale and experience in completing state of California, DRDP (Desired Results Developmental Profile) will be an added advantage. Training available upon hire.
• Must have up-to-date all mandated training, current physical from a U.S. doctor, and vaccines.
• Strong interpersonal skills, ability to communicate with kindness, respect, empathy, clarity, and decisiveness, both in writing and in person.
• A collaborative leadership style, built on approachability, responsiveness, humility, and transparency.
• A warm and engaging presence, visible and active in all areas of school life, modeling genuine positivity toward work of every kind.
• Good business sense to support the school in becoming financially independent through maximized enrollment and mindful cost management and establish LEAN business practices.
• Practical skills (website editing, calendar management, event planning, scheduling, management of third-party payments), and an ability and an eagerness to gain additional practical skills when necessary.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Patience, compassion, love, and enthusiasm for working with young children and appreciation of their developmental differences and the families.
• Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues, communicate effectively and supervise personnel when necessary.
• Must be punctual, reliable, responsible, and respectful (This is a must).
• Strong command of English in written and verbal communication is a must. Fluency in a second language is an added advantage. Must be fluent in both languages (Spanish – English, French – English, Mandarin – English).
• Special qualifications: Special needs background and mindfulness practice are desirable.
• Must be willing to invest time and energy to improve the lives of young children.
• Ability to work some weekends and holidays to promote school functions and outreach projects will be required.

Required Skills :

A Montessori Head of School needs a unique blend of leadership, educational, and interpersonal skills to effectively lead the school while staying true to the Montessori philosophy. Here's a list of key skills required for this role :

• Strong Understanding of Montessori Philosophy and Pedagogy

In-depth knowledge of Montessori principles, methods, and practices, and the ability to uphold and advocate for these in all aspects of the school's operation.

• Child Development Knowledge

Understanding of developmental stages in children and how to apply Montessori methods to support individual growth and learning.

Ability to ensure that the curriculum is both Montessori-aligned and developmentally appropriate for each age group.

• Leadership and Visionary Skills
• Visionary Leadership

The ability to set a clear vision for the school, inspire others, and guide the community towards shared goals.

• Strategic Planning

Skill in developing long-term goals, strategic initiatives, and aligning them with the school's values and mission.

• Decision-Making

Ability to make informed decisions, balancing the needs of students, staff, parents, and the school community.

Responsibilities :

The Head of School at a Montessori school plays a crucial leadership role in maintaining the integrity of the Montessori philosophy and ensuring that the school operates smoothly and effectively. Here are the key responsibilities :

• The Head of School's role is both strategic and operational, requiring a deep understanding of the Montessori approach and a strong ability to lead a school community in a way that respects and upholds the Montessori philosophy while ensuring the school functions efficiently.
• Develop and grow a robust enrollment and sustain it long term.
• Develop a strong community of families committed to the Montessori journey.
• Leadership and Vision

Ensure the school's educational practices align with Montessori principles, promoting self-directed learning, independence, and respect for the child.

• Set School Vision and Goals

Develop a strategic plan for the school, outlining goals for academic, social, and emotional development.

Inspire and lead staff, students, and parents in fostering a positive and nurturing educational environment.

• Ensure Quality Montessori Curriculum

Oversee the implementation of a developmentally appropriate, Montessori-aligned curriculum across all grade levels.

Provide guidance and professional development opportunities to ensure teachers are continuously improving their Montessori practices.

• Evaluate Educational Outcomes

Monitor student progress, ensuring Montessori methods are effective and addressing any areas needing improvement.

• Staff Management
• Recruitment and Hiring

Oversee the recruitment, hiring, and professional development of qualified Montessori-trained teachers and staff.

• Supervision and Evaluation

Observe teaching practices, provide feedback, and conduct regular evaluations to maintain high standards.

Create a collaborative work environment where teachers and staff can share ideas, challenges, and successes.

• Community Building
• Maintain Parent Relationships

Act as a liaison between parents and the school, ensuring communication is open and regular. Hold parent-teacher conferences and community meetings.

• Foster School Culture

Promote a strong school culture rooted in respect, empathy, and the Montessori approach.

• Facilitate Community Events

Organize and promote events that engage students, staff, and parents in the school community.

• Administrative Management
• Budget and Financial Management

Oversee the school's budget, ensuring financial stability and resource allocation in line with the school's mission.

• Compliance and Accreditation

Ensure that the school adheres to all local regulations, accreditation standards, and Montessori-specific guidelines.

• School Operations

Supervise day-to-day operations of the school, ensuring that facilities, resources, and student services are managed effectively.

• Monitor Student Progress

Ensure that each child's emotional, social, and academic needs are met through individualized approaches.

• Promote Inclusion

Foster an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of background, feel valued and supported.

Address any behavioral or interpersonal issues within the school in a constructive, Montessori-aligned manner.

• Marketing and Outreach
• Promote the School

Represent the school to the broader community, including prospective families, potential donors, and educational organizations.

• Admissions and Enrollment

Oversee the admissions process and ensure the school maintains appropriate enrollment levels.

• Professional Development

Stay updated on Montessori trends, education policies, and best practices.

• Facilitate Training

Provide or support ongoing professional development for the faculty and staff to maintain a high level of expertise in Montessori education.

• Safety and Well-being
• Ensure Student Safety

Ensure a safe and secure environment for all students, including physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

• Crisis Management

Lead the school in response to any emergencies or crises, ensuring that protocols are followed, and communication is clear.

How to Apply

If you have a can-do attitude and are excited to join a team of passionate educators, we invite you to apply for this role today!

To apply,

email

your resume to : jobs.scientia.education@gmail.com, cc to : [emailprotected] in pdf format.

A cover letter expressing your interest in the position.

• A list of professional references with name, relationship, phone number, and email address of each (references will be contacted only with the candidate's permission).

Pay : Negotiable and competitive based on qualification & experience

Expected hours : 40+ per week, M – F

Benefits :

Employee discount (employee's children)

Extensive employee training throughout the school year (fully paid, including staff wages)

Continuous professional development and coaching by dedicated Montessori coaches.