Position Summary
The Head of School is responsible for implementing the mission and vision of St. Monica's as determined by the President and Board of Directors.
Integral to this position is the ability to create an authentic Catholic culture and to lead faculty and staff in living lives of Christian discipleship. In addition, the Head of School must strive to be an expert in the Montessori method, ensuring the proper implementation of all curricula and instruction at every level of the school. The Head of School is primarily responsible for the establishment of school culture, upholding academic excellence, and student life, and managing the day-to-day operations of school programs and staff.
This individual is responsible for the overall functioning of the school, fostering a strong Catholic identity, maintaining excellence in Montessori education, and building a thriving, mission-driven community of students, parents, and educators.
Key Responsibilities
Mission & Catholic Identity
Ensure the school's mission aligns with Catholic teachings and Montessori principles.
Foster a Christ-centered culture rooted in prayer, service, and virtue.
Collaborate with clergy (if applicable) to enhance the spiritual formation of students and staff.
Serve as a model of faith and servant leadership for the school community.
Academic & Montessori Excellence
Oversee the implementation and continued development of authentic Montessori education.
Ensure curriculum and pedagogy align with Catholic Montessori philosophy and best practices.
Support faculty in professional development and Montessori certification.
Foster a culture of continuous learning and assessment.
Leadership & Administration
Oversee school day-to-day operations and facilities.
Cultivate a positive, collaborative, and mission-aligned faculty and staff.
Work closely with the President on strategic planning and school advancement.
Assist the President as needed in pursuit of full approbation as an independent Catholic school of the Diocese of Fargo
Ensure compliance with diocesan, state, and accrediting bodies' requirements.
Community Engagement & Advancement
Build strong relationships with students, parents, faculty, and the wider Catholic community.
Assist the President as needed in efforts in enrollment growth, marketing, and fundraising.
Promote a welcoming and inclusive environment that reflects Gospel values.
Qualifications & Skills
Practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church, with a deep commitment to Catholic Montessori education.
Master's degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Montessori Education, or a related field preferred.
Montessori certification or experience in a Montessori setting is strongly preferred.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in educational leadership, preferably in a Catholic or Montessori school.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead a team with a servant-leadership approach.
Passion for forming young minds and hearts in faith and learning.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and a statement of educational philosophy that reflects alignment with Catholic Montessori principles to Bryan Wilburn, President at bwilburn@stmonicasfargo.com.
