Mountain Sunrise Academy, a public Waldorf charter school serving students in grades K–6, is seeking an inspiring and experienced Executive Director to lead our growing community. This role is ideal for a visionary educational leader who is committed to child‑centered learning, operational excellence, and the thoughtful integration of Waldorf principles within a public school framework.
About the Role
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of Mountain Sunrise Academy, responsible for strategic leadership, operational management, and the stewardship of our school’s mission. This leader ensures that Waldorf educational philosophy thrives within the requirements of public education, while fostering a warm, developmentally aligned, and inclusive school culture.
Key Responsibilities
Educational Leadership
- Uphold and champion Waldorf educational philosophy within a public charter context
- Ensure curriculum aligns with both Waldorf principles and state academic standards
- Support teachers in delivering developmentally appropriate, arts‑integrated instruction
- Foster a school culture that honors each child’s natural developmental progression
- Oversee assessment practices that balance Waldorf approaches with public accountability
Operational Management
- Provide strategic planning and daily oversight of school operations
- Lead annual budget development and ensure sound financial stewardship
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local education regulations
- Oversee facilities, safety protocols, and campus operations
- Lead enrollment management and student recruitment efforts
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Governance & Compliance
- Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, including preparing reports and presenting at monthly meetings
- Ensure compliance with charter requirements and authorizer expectations
- Oversee mandated reporting (IDEA, Title I, Title IX, and other federal programs)
- Maintain documentation for audits, renewals, and accountability metrics
- Ensure legal compliance across all school operations
Human Resources & Staff Development
- Recruit, hire, and evaluate faculty and staff aligned with Waldorf education
- Provide ongoing professional development in Waldorf pedagogy and public education requirements
- Manage faculty relations, contracts, and performance processes
- Support teacher certification and continuing education
Community Relations
- Build strong relationships with parents, families, and community partners
- Communicate the school’s mission, vision, and achievements to stakeholders
- Collaborate with district officials, charter authorizers, and educational partners
- Represent the school at community events and professional conferences
- Oversee public relations and marketing initiatives
Financial Management
- Oversee the annual budget and ensure fiscal responsibility
- Monitor revenue streams including per‑pupil funding, grants, and fundraising
- Ensure financial controls and audit compliance
- Coordinate with the business manager on purchasing, payroll, and accounting
- Develop fundraising strategies for capital improvements and enrichment programs
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Core Qualifications
Education & Certification
- Commitment to learning and implementing Waldorf educational principles
- Minimum 5 years of educational leadership experience (charter or alternative school experience preferred)
Knowledge & Skills
- Willingness to learn and thoughtfully apply Waldorf pedagogy
- Strong understanding of child development and public education standards
- Knowledge of public education law, charter governance, and regulatory compliance
- Experience with budget management and financial oversight
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders
- Familiarity with educational technology and data systems
- Understanding of special education law and inclusive practices
Leadership Qualities
- Visionary leadership balancing innovation and tradition
- Collaborative management style that honors teacher autonomy
- Cultural competency and commitment to equity and inclusion
- Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to navigate complex regulations
- Passion for child‑centered, developmentally appropriate education
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s and/or Doctoral degree in Education Administration or related field
- Valid state administrative license or certification
- Experience in Waldorf or progressive education settings
- Waldorf teacher training or anthroposophical study background
- Experience with charter authorization and renewal processes
- Bilingual abilities (languages based on community needs)
- Grant writing and fundraising experience
- Knowledge of restorative justice and positive discipline approaches
Working Conditions
- Full‑time, 12‑month position
- Evening and weekend commitments for events and board meetings
- Occasional travel for professional development
- Highly collaborative environment with frequent interaction across stakeholder groups
Equal Opportunity Statement
Mountain Sunrise Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our dedication to excellence in education and service to children and families.
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: March 13th, 2026, 11:59 p.m.
- Interviews: Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews
- Final Selection: Finalists may be asked to complete additional steps, such as a performance task or stakeholder interviews
How to Apply
Apply here or submit your Resume/CV & Statement of Interest to our Board Vice‑Chair at:
Please include “Executive Director Application – (Your Full Name)” in the subject line of your email.
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