Founding Head of School

Start Date

For the right candidate, our start date is flexible between January 2026 and June 2026, including the opportunity to begin aspects of the role on a part‑time basis. The role will be full‑time (and year‑round) beginning no later than July 2026.

We are a young, high‑quality, independent organization that now operates three schools in Providence, RI;
Jamaica Plain, MA; and the South End of Boston. We are thrilled by the opportunity to open a fourth school, The Croft School:
Cambridge, in September 2026. During the 2026‑27 school year, we will enroll students in Preschool and Pre‑Kindergarten. During the 2027‑28 year, we will expand to include Kindergarten and, over time, grow into a Preschool‑Grade 8 school.

Our early childhood program follows an emergent curriculum that puts students at the center. Students engage in play‑ and inquiry‑based learning, with developmentally appropriate literacy and math instruction, frequent enrichment and Spanish courses, and weekly nature explorations or community field trips.

Our elementary program includes high‑quality math, reading, and writing instruction, innovative project‑based learning, opportunities for play and creative expression, and a focus on culturally responsive academics. The middle‑school curriculum also emphasizes service‑learning and purpose development.

More information can be found at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Head of School (HOS) is responsible for fostering a vibrant and equitable learning environment—one defined by rigor, spark, joy, heart, and a deep sense of belonging. At The Croft School, the HOS prioritizes authentic, trusting relationships with families, students, and colleagues, and places clear, consistent communication at the heart of their leadership.

Core aspects of the role include:

• Community & Family Engagement – Build strong, trusting relationships with families through individualized and culturally responsive communication.
• Visionary Leadership & School Culture – Embody and model Croft’s mission and values in all aspects of leadership and school life.
• Instructional Leadership & Academic Excellence – Support teachers in delivering rigorous, differentiated, and engaging instruction that reflects students’ interests, backgrounds, and learning needs.
• Talent Management & Development – Provide individualized coaching, feedback, and development to foster professional growth.
• Operational & Financial Management – Design and oversee operations and contribute to strategic planning, including the alignment of resources to support school priorities.

The ideal candidate will be an entrepreneurial team leader who continually seeks ways to “raise the bar” and is committed to being a self‑reflective, anti‑racist organization.

• 5+ years in a school or teacher‑leadership role, including as a school leader, leadership team member, or teacher‑leader.
• Expertise in early childhood and/or elementary programming, particularly in student‑centered pedagogy, project‑based learning, and the creation of a rigorous, joyful, welcoming environment.
• Experience working with a wide range of learners.
• Top‑tier managerial and coaching skills, sharpened through direct oversight of teachers and educators.
• Entrepreneurial spirit, ambitious work ethic, and a desire to go above and beyond to serve students and families.
• Outstanding communication and collaboration skills, including empathy, thoughtful listening, team orientation, and enthusiasm for a small, close‑knit team.
• Self‑reflectiveness, humility, and an eagern to continually improve practice.
• Strong desire to remain in this role for 5+ years.
• Master’s Degree preferred;
  Bachelor’s Degree and current U.S. work authorization required.

Compensation ranges from $140,000 to $180,000, commensurate with experience, and is competitive with local independent and public school opportunities.

As an equal‑opportunity employer, The Croft School does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.

Please share a letter of intent regarding your interest in this role.