Get new jobs for this search by email

Head of School Stepping Stones Montessori in East Lansing (SSM) Position Overview: Stepping Stones Montessori in East Lansing (SSM), Michigan, is an established, non-profit, independent Montessori school seeking a passionate and experienced leader to serve as our Head of School starting with the 2025-2026 school year. This individual will enhance the educational experience of students, lead a dedicated team of classroom guides, build a strong and engaged community, and effectively oversee the school’s administrative and financial operations. About Our School: SSM serves students from 18 months of age through 6th grade and is committed to a Montessori education. As one of three independent Montessori schools in the area, we benefit from a vibrant community of Montessori educators. We distinguish ourselves through our warm, community-oriented environment and our commitment to social justice and service, both within and beyond our school building. Founded 42 years ago as a single classroom in a rented space, SSM successfully led a capital campaign and built its own facility in 1999. Today, we serve approximately 100 students across five classrooms: one toddler, two primary, one lower elementary, and one upper elementary. Position Description: The Head of School will serve as the educational and operational leader of our Montessori community, ensuring the highest standards of Montessori pedagogy, curriculum, and administration. This leadership role requires a strong commitment to Montessori principles and the ability to foster a thriving learning environment for students, faculty, and families. Key Responsibilities: Uphold and advance Montessori philosophy and curriculum across all programs. Execute and administer school policies and strategic plans. Support and mentor classroom guides in curriculum implementation and professional growth. Oversee daily operations, ensuring excellence in academics, business, and community relations. Oversee all school programs, including enrichment programs and before- and after-school childcare. Foster a strong Montessori community by maintaining open, effective communication among faculty, staff, students, and families. Serve as the primary liaison between the school and parents, faculty, staff, the Board of Directors, prospective families, and the broader community. Address concerns professionally and constructively to maintain the positive school culture. Collaborate with the Board of Directors, participating in meetings, providing reports, and contributing to strategic planning. Manage school operations, including faculty and staff orientation, evaluation, and professional development. Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations, as well as Montessori affiliation standards. Oversee financial operations, including budget preparation and staffing levels. Ideal Candidate Qualifications: Education:

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred. Montessori Experience:

Montessori classroom experience, teacher certification, and/or administration certification (highly preferred). Leadership Experience:

Proven experience in a leadership role within a school setting, preferably Montessori. Operational Management:

Strong ability to manage school operations, including budgeting, staffing, and regulatory compliance. Board Collaboration:

Experience working with a Board of Directors and leadership teams. Advocacy & Communication:

Persuasive, articulate advocate for the school within the broader community. Visionary Leadership:

Dynamic, forward-thinking leader with strong organizational and people skills. Community Engagement:

Ability to foster a welcoming and inclusive school community. Problem-Solving:

Experience addressing and resolving concerns professionally and constructively. Strategic Planning:

Ability to develop and execute long-term goals for the school. Passion for Education:

Enthusiasm for creating a nurturing and dynamic learning environment. Compensation: A competitive salary will be offered, commensurate with experience. Application Process & Timeline: Review of applications will begin on

March 21, 2025 , and the position will remain open until filled. Interested candidates should apply via email by submitting: A cover letter detailing leadership philosophy. A curriculum vitae/resume. For questions regarding the position, please contact the Search Committee Chair. Send all correspondence to

chair@steppingstoneseastlansing.org Website:

https://ssmeastlansing.org/

#J-18808-Ljbffr