School Director

Be the Next School Director at Charlottesville Waldorf School!

CWS is seeking an inspirational and strategic School Director to lead our school with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to Waldorf education. This is an opportunity for a values-driven leader to engage a dedicated community in growing the impact and strength of a 43-year-old Waldorf School.

Why Charlottesville Waldorf School?

CWS is more than a school—it’s a community dedicated to nurturing a generation of skilled and flexible thinkers prepared for an unpredictable future. Located in the scenic heart of Virginia, Charlottesville frequently appears on “Great Places to Live” lists and offers a vibrant cultural scene in a small, historic University town with abundant options for outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community.

We have a 97% forecasted teacher retention rate for the upcoming year, with a dynamic mentoring program in place that helps our teachers develop deeper understanding and application of Waldorf teaching methodologies. Our engaged parent body, experienced faculty, and enthusiastic students make this a truly rewarding opportunity to lead with integrity and vision.

At CWS, we believe education should ignite curiosity, foster compassion, and build a sense of responsibility in children. As School Director, you will oversee all aspects of school leadership—from shaping strategic direction to fostering a warm, engaged school community. Specifically, you will:

• Work closely with the Board of Trustees to guide and develop the school’s long-term vision and strategy.
• Partner with the Academic Director to support an innovative and developmentally engaging curriculum.
• Oversee the school’s financial health, operations, and compliance in partnership with the Business Manager.
• Engage with families, donors, and the local community to foster a connected, inclusive school culture.
• Serve as the public face of the school , articulating the value of Waldorf education to prospective families.

An Ideal Candidate:

• Thrives in collaboration and can build strong relationships with faculty, staff, and families.
• Advocates for Waldorf education with passion and vision.
• Applies strategic thinking to ensure the School’s financial health, enrollment growth, and operational excellence.
• Adeptly applies financial literacy and project management skills to practice.
• Builds community by inspiring and engaging diverse stakeholders.
• Leads with vision, clarity, and balanced decision making.
• Can help CWS articulate, and execute its authentic expression of diversity and inclusion.
• Has demonstrated results using strategic initiatives to increase student enrollment.

• Able to start June 2026.
• BA required; MA Preferred.
• 5+ years progressive experience in educational leadership.
• Proven expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and community-building.
• Exceptional interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• A deep commitment to the principles and practices of Waldorf education.
• Legally authorized to work in the US.
• Appointment is contingent upon a clear background check.
• Salary starting at $60K base pay plus an incremental adjustment based on prior experience and qualifications .
• Healthcare Stipend : $3,000 annually.
• Signing Bonus :
  Up to $5,000 for qualified candidates. Relocation support available.
• Tuition remission for up to three children
  • Early Childhood: Tuition remission is 50% (applied to the EC tuition).
  • Grades 1–8: Save $4,218–$7,592 per student, per year , reaching up to $7,592 at the 90% remission level.
  • We also offer generous financial aid to faculty and staff who need additional support beyond the remission,
    up to a total of 90% .
  • Mentoring Program :
    Comprehensive and supportive mentoring for all new administrators and teachers. .
• A balanced work schedule with paid time off, summer flexibility and school break downtime.

If you’re ready to bring passion, vision, and leadership to Charlottesville Waldorf School, we’d love to hear from you! Email your letter of interest and CV to Director Search .