Amherst Montessori Appoints Matt McCaffrey as Head of School
Aug 20, 2026
AMHERST, Mass. — Amherst Montessori School is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew McCaffrey as its new Head of School. McCaffrey assumed the role on July 1, 2026, bringing more than three decades of leadership experience in independent schools and a deep commitment to Montessori education.
Founded in 1970, Amherst Montessori School serves children from infancy through grade 6 and is recognized for its authentic Montessori curriculum, collaborative community and dedication to nurturing independent, compassionate learners.
McCaffrey joins Amherst Montessori after serving as Director of Strategic Enrollment Management and Marketing at The Independent Day School in Middlefield, Connecticut, where he led the school's strategic enrollment efforts and helped achieve its first consecutive years of enrollment growth since 2017.
His career also includes serving as Head of School at Canton Montessori School in Ohio, where he led the American Montessori Society-affiliated school through significant enrollment growth, expanded annual giving, strengthened community engagement and launched the school's pathway toward full AMS accreditation.
Throughout his career, McCaffrey has built a reputation for collaborative leadership, strategic planning and fostering strong relationships among students, faculty, families and trustees. His experience spans enrollment management, advancement, financial stewardship, marketing, strategic planning and school operations, with a consistent focus on mission-driven leadership and educational excellence.
"The Board of Trustees enthusiastically welcomes Matt McCaffrey to the Amherst Montessori School community. Matt’s professional background, including his expertise in school management, enrollment, and advancement, makes him the ideal leader as the school moves into its next era," said Board of Trustees President Jen Lefort.
As Head of School, McCaffrey will oversee all aspects of school leadership and operations, including advancing the school's Montessori mission, supporting faculty and staff, strengthening enrollment, guiding strategic planning and fostering meaningful partnerships with families and the broader community.
"I am honored to join Amherst Montessori School and become part of such a vibrant and caring community," McCaffrey said. "From my first conversations with the Board, faculty and families, it was clear that Amherst Montessori has built something truly special. I look forward to working alongside this exceptional community to support every child's growth while honoring the school's rich Montessori tradition and building an exciting future together."
McCaffrey holds bachelor's degrees in psychology and elementary education and a master's degree in educational development and strategies from Wilkes University. Over the course of his career, he has held leadership positions at independent schools and higher education institutions across the Northeast and Midwest, with expertise in school leadership, enrollment strategy, advancement and organizational development.
About Amherst Montessori School
Founded in 1970, Amherst Montessori School is an independent, nonprofit school serving children from infancy through grade 6 in Amherst, Massachusetts. Affiliated with the American Montessori Society, the school provides an authentic Montessori education that fosters independence, curiosity, compassion and a lifelong love of learning in a joyful, supportive community.
Media Contact:
Matt McCaffrey, Head of School
Amherst Montessori School
Phone: 413-253-3101
Email: mmccaffrey@amherstmontessori.org