AMS New Heads of School Summit 2025

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Welcome Reception

• Icebreaker activities to foster initial connections among attendees
• Introduction to AMS leadership and Summit facilitators

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Dinner & Keynote - Celebrating Leadership: Embracing Your Role as a Montessori Leader

Spotlight Speaker: Anita Hanks

Leadership within a Montessori school is both a profound responsibility and an extraordinary opportunity. In this inspiring spotlight, we will explore what it means to fully embrace your role as a Montessori leader.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Integrating Montessori Philosophy into Leadership

Presenters: Gulzar Babool and Robyn Breiman

This session provides an essential overview of the Montessori Leadership Framework, guiding participants through the core principles that define effective leadership within a Montessori school. Attendees will explore how to align their personal leadership style with Montessori philosophy, emphasizing the importance of vision, community building, and ethical decision-making. The session will also include a discussion on the role of the prepared adult in a Montessori environment, emphasizing how self-preparation and reflection are key to effective leadership. Through interactive discussions and reflective activities, new heads of schools will gain practical strategies to lead with authenticity, inspire their teams, and cultivate a thriving Montessori environment.

1:30 – 3:00 PM: Building Community and Connection

Presenters: Debbie Senoff-Langford and Sabrina Binkley

This session delves into the critical role of community building and connection within a Montessori school. Participants will explore strategies to create and nurture a strong, inclusive school community where all members—students, teachers, parents, and administrators—feel valued and engaged. Through collaborative activities and group discussions, attendees will learn how to foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. This session will provide new heads of schools with practical tools and insights to strengthen relationships, build a supportive network, and create a sense of belonging that enhances the overall school experience.

3:30 – 5:00 PM: The First Years as a Head of School

Presenters: Michelle Seyller and Munir Shivji

Stepping into the role of Head of School brings unique challenges and opportunities, especially during the critical first few years. This workshop is designed to help new heads navigate this pivotal period with confidence and clarity. Participants will explore common challenges faced by new leaders, including establishing authority, building trust, and managing change. The session will introduce the 3-year cycle—a strategic approach to planning, implementation, and reflection that supports sustained school growth and development.

9:00 – 10:00 AM: Nurturing the Whole Child - Leadership Perspective

Presenter: Gulzar Babool

In a Montessori school, nurturing the whole child is at the heart of our educational philosophy. This workshop focuses on how school leaders can support this holistic approach from a leadership perspective. Participants will explore strategies for creating an environment that fosters the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development of each child. By understanding the interconnectedness of these areas, leaders can make informed decisions that uphold the Montessori commitment to nurturing the whole child. The session will include practical examples and discussions on how leadership practices can support and enhance the child-centered focus of Montessori education, ensuring that every aspect of the school aligns with this fundamental principle.

10:15 – 12:00 PM: Supporting Montessori Teachers

Presenter: Robyn Breiman

Effective support and development of Montessori teachers are key to fostering a thriving educational environment. In this workshop, participants will explore a range of techniques designed to provide meaningful support to teachers at various stages of their careers. From understanding the unique needs of novice to veteran Montessori educators, to implementing strategies for ongoing professional growth, this session offers practical tools for heads of schools to enhance teacher satisfaction and effectiveness. Attendees will also engage in interactive role-playing scenarios to practice delivering constructive feedback and coaching, ensuring they leave with the confidence and skills to support their teaching staff in real-world situations.

1:30 – 2:30 PM: Montessori Hot-Topics, Navigating Contemporary Challenges and Opportunities

Facilitated by: Anita Hanks

Based on feedback and emerging trends from participants, this workshop will be an interactive, participant-driven session designed to address the most pressing issues in Montessori education today. Through hands-on mini-workshops and guided reflection, attendees will leave with practical strategies and insights from compelling case studies. There will also be opportunities for dialogue with similarly structured schools to develop connections and thought partners for leadership challenges.

3:00 – 5:00 PM: Leveraging the AMS Admin Credential & Navigating Leadership Challenges

Facilitated by: Sabrina Binkley

Join two distinguished AMS board members for an insightful and comprehensive session that combines two key aspects of Montessori leadership. The first part of the session will focus on the AMS Admin Credential—a powerful tool for school leaders looking to deepen their impact and professional growth. Representatives from Gulf Coast Montessori TEP, Shelton Montessori Training, Houston Montessori Center, Westside Montessori Institute, and Seton Montessori Institute will share their experiences, offering a deep dive into the benefits and practical applications of the credential. In the second part of the session, a panel Discussion will bring together experienced Heads of School to explore the real-world challenges faced by Montessori leaders. This open forum invites attendees to bring their own questions and concerns, fostering a dynamic discussion that offers practical solutions and peer support. This combined session provides an invaluable opportunity to gain insights, share experiences, and leave with actionable strategies for thriving in your leadership role.