Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees of Acorn Montessori School serves as the governing body responsible for ensuring the long-term health, integrity, and sustainability of the school. The Board’s work centers on upholding the school’s mission and vision, safeguarding its financial and legal well-being, and evaluating and supporting the Head of School, who is the Board’s sole employee. Board members adhere to school bylaws which dictate the minimum and maximum number of individuals that may serve on the Board, term limits, roles, and Board procedures. When Board positions come open, Board candidates are vetted and nominated by the Governance Committee and voted in by the full Board. Those interested in serving on the Board should complete an inquiry form.

Mission & vision stewardship

The Board is tasked with protecting and advancing the school’s mission—to provide a nurturing Montessori education that fosters independent, confident, and compassionate learners—and ensuring the vision remains relevant and aligned with the needs of students, families, and the greater community. This includes:

Setting strategic goals that reflect the long-term aspirations of the school.
Monitoring progress toward those goals.
Acting as ambassadors of the school’s philosophy and values in the broader community.

Fiduciary responsibility

The Board holds the highest level of fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interest of the school. This includes:

Ensuring responsible financial oversight, including approval of the annual budget and financial audits.
Safeguarding assets and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Overseeing risk management and ensuring policies are in place to protect the school’s integrity and operations.
Supporting fundraising efforts and ensuring the school has the resources needed to fulfill its mission.

Oversight of the head of school

The Head of School is the sole employee of the Board and in her/his role of Head of School is responsible for the day-to-day management and leadership of Acorn Montessori. The Board does not engage in operational or administrative functions of the school but instead supports and evaluates the Head of School’s performance. This includes:

Hiring, supporting, evaluating, and, when necessary, making employment decisions related to the Head of School.
Ensuring a clear distinction between governance (Board) and management (Head of School).
Providing guidance and strategic direction while empowering the Head to lead the staff and implement educational programs.

Governance and accountability

Board members are expected to demonstrate commitment, discretion, and integrity in their roles. Key responsibilities include:

Attending regular Board meetings and serving on committees.
Ensuring transparency, ethical leadership, and accountability in decision-making.
Acting collectively, not individually, in the best interest of the school community.
Supporting a culture of inclusivity, respect, and collaboration among stakeholders.