Executive Director

Now Hiring: Executive Director

Central Minnesota Montessori School (CMMS)

St. Cloud, Minnesota | Full-Time | 12-Month Position

Lead and grow a mission-driven Montessori school

Central Minnesota Montessori School (CMMS) is a nonprofit Montessori school serving children ages 3–6. Founded by teachers and parents, CMMS was built to preserve authentic Montessori education in our community.

We are seeking a mission-driven, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as our next Executive Director.

This is more than a director role - it is an opportunity to lead, grow, and sustain a community-built school.

About the Role

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership and management of CMMS, partnering closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and families.

This role includes:

Leading daily school operations and staff
Overseeing budgeting and financial health
Driving enrollment growth and retention
Supporting fundraising and donor engagement
Ensuring licensing compliance
Strengthening systems, processes, and long-term sustainability

Current Stage & Opportunity

CMMS is in a growth stage, with strong community support and engaged families, staff, and board members.

At the same time, we are continuing to build the systems and foundation needed for long-term sustainability.

Like many small nonprofits, we operate with thoughtful use of resources - making strong financial leadership, enrollment management, and community engagement especially important.

This role is ideal for someone who is energized by:

Building and improving systems
Leading through growth and change
Balancing vision with hands-on execution
Engaging families, donors, and the broader community

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a leader who brings business acumen, heart, and humility.

Strong candidates will have:

Leadership experience in education, nonprofit, or operations
Financial literacy (budgeting, forecasting, resource management)
Experience managing teams and building positive culture
Ability to partner effectively with a Board of Directors
Comfort with fundraising and community engagement
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Alignment with Montessori philosophy and child-centered education

Montessori experience is a plus; alignment with the philosophy is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, supervise, and support school staff
Ensure compliance with all licensing and regulatory requirements
Develop and manage the annual budget
Drive enrollment strategy and maintain full enrollment
Build strong relationships with families and the community
Partner with the Board on strategy, fundraising, and sustainability
Oversee marketing, communications, and school presence

Why This Role Matters

CMMS exists because families and educators chose to build something meaningful for children in Central Minnesota.

The next Executive Director will help:

Strengthen long-term sustainability
Maintain Montessori authenticity
Deepen community trust
Ensure continued growth and impact

This is a rare opportunity to lead a school created by the community, for the community.

Compensation

Compensation will reflect the scope of responsibilities and the candidate’s experience. CMMS is committed to offering a competitive and sustainable compensation package aligned with our mission and long-term financial health.

How to Apply

Please submit:

Resume
Responses to the following (150–300 words each):
- Why Montessori and why CMMS?
- Your leadership style and experience leading through change
- Your experience with budgeting or financial oversight
- Your approach to working with a board and community

Please submit your materials here
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Questions - We’re happy to connect.

Please contact:
Kari Stumvoll
CMMS Hiring Committee Chair

hiring@cmmschool.org
320-291-9546