Head of School - Founding Role

Head of School – Montessori-Inspired School Launch Location: Durham, NC (in-person required) Start Date: December 2025 Employment Type: Part-time to start → Full-time leadership Salary Range: $80,000–$100,000 starting (based on experience) Equity Partnership Potential About Purpose Schools Purpose Schools is a mission-driven education startup launching its first Montessori-inspired school in Durham, NC. We believe children thrive when learning is rooted in agency, curiosity, independence, and joy. Our model blends Montessori principles with strong relationships and purpose-driven learning to create extraordinary school experiences. Role Overview We’re hiring a visionary Head of School to lead the design, launch, and growth of our flagship campus. This is a rare opportunity to build a school from the ground up, shape its culture, and lead a team of passionate educators. Key Highlights: • Part-time during design phase (Sept–Dec 2025) • Full-time leadership starting January 2026 • Salary range: $80,000–$100,000 (in first year) DOE • Equity partnership potential for long-term fit Responsibilities Pre-Launch (Dec 2025-April 2026): • Co-design school culture, instructional philosophy, and values • Support family engagement: enrollment calls, events, community-building • Participate in hiring and onboarding educators • Coach teachers as we launch our first classroom Post-Launch (May 2026 onward): • Lead daily operations: drop-off, pick-up, classroom rhythm • Serve as instructional leader and coach • Step into classroom teaching as needed • Manage substitutes and coverage • Foster a thriving Montessori culture • Lead family communications and relationships • Collaborate on operations, safety, and protocols • Shape long-term growth and vision of Purpose Schools Requirements Who We’re Looking For Required: • 1+ year school leadership OR 5+ years classroom teaching • Montessori certification (AMI, AMS, NAMC, or equivalent) • First Aid/CPR (or ability to obtain before start date) • Strong coaching and educator management skills • Excellent communication and comfort with remote collaboration tools • Self-directed, entrepreneurial mindset • Background check and references Preferred: • Education degree or teaching certification • Bilingual or multilingual experience • Experience with school launches, microschools, or innovative education models Benefits Why Join Purpose Schools? • Autonomy and Ownership: Shape the vision, culture, and design of a new school • Entrepreneurial Energy: Build something unique while leading day-to-day operations • Trial → Partnership: 3-month trial with pathway to equity partnership • ❤️ Mission-Driven: Reimagine joyful, rigorous, purposeful school experiences for children, families, and educators Compensation & Benefits • Competitive salary: $80,000–$100,000 based on experience • Part-time stipend during pre-launch and trial period • Clear pathway to full-time leadership • Potential for long-term partnership and equity How to Apply Submit your CV/resume and a brief statement addressing: • Why you’re excited about launching and leading a new school • How your experience aligns with Montessori leadership and school design • What autonomy and ownership mean to you in a school context Apply tot his job