Located on a beautiful, tree-lined 14-acre campus in Pepper Pike Ohio, a Cleveland suburb, The Lillian and Betty Ratner Montessori School (Ratner) has been described as a “kind and collaborative school.” It serves a diverse population of 200 students from toddlers through 8th grade. Founded in 1963, the school has a tradition of academic excellence within a true Montessori program and environment. Ratner graduates have a strong track record of acceptance to a wide range of competitive high schools where they are well prepared and thrive.

With solid finances, a wise board, and a stable and dedicated faculty, at the end of June 2026 the current head is retiring after many successful years. He leaves behind an administrative team that, while many are relatively new in their positions, is already serving the school well. A long-term Director of Montessori Education helps assure fidelity to Montessori values and practices.

Ratner seeks an Interim Head of School to start July 1, 2026. Of particular importance, the new Interim Head will have the opportunity to solidify and build excellent team dynamics in the faculty and Administration. The school has stable enrollment, and the Interim head will partner with the Board to set the school on a path toward long-term financial sustainability while continuing to assure that the students receive the very best Montessori education every day. Effective enrollment management and fundraising strategies will help provide fiscal sustainability.

While prior Montessori training or experience is not required, candidates must possess the skills to lead the above efforts. In addition, successful candidates will have a warm, welcoming, inclusive interpersonal style; be calm and reassuring to parents and faculty; and will share the school’s commitment to the principles of DEIBJ. Because time is of the essence, interested candidates should send a letter of interest and a current resume AS SOON AS POSSIBLE to:

Skip.kotkins@carneysandoe.com

All such initial interests will be kept in strict confidence between the consultant and the four-person Board Executive Committee who will make the Interim HOS selection.

About The Ratner Montessori School

The Lillian and Betty Ratner Montessori School is a coeducational independent Montessori school that serves students ages 18 months through 8th grade. Founded in 1963, the school continues to live its mission: We empower students to find joy in learning and to become their best selves. The school’s location on a serene 14-acre campus in Pepper Pike, Ohio was selected for its positive influence on self-discovery and exploration. The Ratner Montessori School prepares its students for a successful high school career at the region’s diverse, excellent high schools: private, independent, parochial or public.

Connections working at The Ratner Montessori School