Job Type: Full-time
Location: Southgate, MI
Salary: 100,000 – 125,000 (relocation bonus available)
Benefits: Full benefits package, relocation package available

School Leader

About the Organization

We serve children in a Montessori learning environment that nurtures each child’s innate desire to learn, fosters innovation, and supports self-directed, individualized learning. Teachers and leaders are trained in the Montessori Method and committed to a demanding curriculum that honors student independence, critical thinking, and holistic development.finalsite+1

Role Summary

The School Leader is responsible for the school’s overall academic performance, culture, and operations. This role ensures students learn at high levels in a physically and emotionally safe environment, while leading staff, managing budgets, and building strong relationships with families and the community.hiring.monster+2

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mission, vision, values, and Montessori philosophy across the school community.

• Own academic results; use data, curriculum fidelity, and MTSS to improve student outcomes and meet board/authorizer goals.

• Oversee safety and operations, including emergency protocols, drills, security systems, student records, attendance, and compliance.

• Manage the school budget with fiscal responsibility, assist with pay negotiations, and identify cost-effective practices that maintain educational quality.

• Supervise and develop staff: recruit, hire, onboard, coach, evaluate, and lead performance management and professional development.

• Maintain high standards of student conduct and consistently enforce the Code of Student Conduct with due process.

• Partner with special education staff to ensure effective implementation of IEPs and Section 504 plans and strong family collaboration on student support plans.

• Drive enrollment and reputation through an annual marketing and recruiting plan, positive community engagement, and clear communication of school achievements and culture.

• Strengthen parent partnerships through regular communication, follow-up, and support of student activities and recognition events.

• Keep senior leadership informed on key instructional, operational, personnel, and community matters; perform other leadership duties as assigned.paprincipals+2

Candidate Profile

Minimum Requirements

• Current Michigan School Administrator Certification, or enrollment in an MDE-approved School Leader Preparation Program leading to certification within three years (per MCL 380.1246).

• Progressive leadership experience in an educational setting.northfieldschools+1

Preferred Qualifications

• At least five years of highly effective teaching with positive evaluations.

• Prior school or program leadership experience and knowledge of educational administration best practices.

• Experience working with diverse student populations and strong understanding of instructional methodology.

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal education laws and regulations.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills to foster a positive school culture.

• Demonstrated self-awareness, adaptability, and commitment to continuous leadership growth.

• Persistent problem-solver with a proactive approach to change and improvement.

• Proficiency with technology for data analysis, instructional coaching, communication, and professional development.