Head of School - Founding Role

Head of School – Montessori-Inspired School LaunchLocation: Durham, NC (in-person required)Start Date: December 2025Employment Type: Part-time to start → Full-time leadershipSalary Range: $80,000–$100,000 starting (based on experience)Equity Partnership PotentialAbout Purpose SchoolsPurpose 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 OverviewWe’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 fitResponsibilitiesPre-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 classroomPost-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 SchoolsRequirementsWho We’re Looking ForRequired:• 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 referencesPreferred:• Education degree or teaching certification• Bilingual or multilingual experience• Experience with school launches, microschools, or innovative education modelsBenefitsWhy 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 educatorsCompensation & 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 equitySubmit 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