Why Do Montessori Schools Need a Strategic Plan?

Hanka has been leading Montessori Schools Andilek for over a decade, guiding its transformation from a small family initiative into a thriving, bilingual Montessori program that spans from infants to adolescents. Her leadership approach? Building a strong, collaborative team culture and using strategic planning as a living tool—not a forgotten document.

In a recent conversation with Mirka, she opened up about what it really takes to create and sustain a school-wide strategic plan that works in practice—and why it matters now more than ever.

The Power of a Living Strategic Plan

What does strategic planning look like in a Montessori school? According to Hanka, it’s not about corporate language or rigid three-year plans. It’s about building a shared direction—with your team, for your community.

Team Culture Comes First

Before any plan is created, Hanka prioritizes team culture. She makes sure there’s space for sharing ideas, listening, and growing together. This means regular meetings, cross-level workshops, and even rethinking the school calendar to make time for collaboration.

From Vision to Action

Hanka doesn’t just write down a vision—she builds annual action plans tailored to each department, each guide, each role. Everyone knows what they’re responsible for, and each team contributes to the whole-school strategy.

Built-In Flexibility

Strategic planning at Andilek is responsive, not rigid. When unexpected things happen (and they always do), the team has clarity and confidence because the big picture is clear. The plan lives with them throughout the year.

“Strategic planning is not about a document. It’s a way of working together.”

 Hanka Chramostová

Key Takeaways from Hanka’s Approach

• Strategy Is a Process, Not a Product: Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to create a plan. Start small, make it live, and let it evolve.
• Involve Everyone: From classroom assistants to administrators, your strategy should include all voices and perspectives.
• Give Structure to the Vision: Clear pillars, specific goals, and a shared rhythm of meetings can anchor your school in even the most uncertain times.
• Plan Ahead to Make Space: At Andilek, strategic team time is built into the calendar before the school year starts.
• Communicate With Parents: Closing early for planning days? Let parents know why—and how it benefits their children.

Join Hanka This May on:

School Strategic Plan: A Living Framework for Collaboration

📅 Starts May 5 | 🖥️ Online | 4 sessions

In this brand-new workshop, Hanka will guide you through the real, behind-the-scenes work of:

• Creating a shared school culture

• Building and implementing a strategic plan with your team

• Turning ideas into aligned, sustainable action

This is not a theory course. This is real-life leadership for real Montessori schools—with all the challenges, flexibility, and team energy that come with it.

Learn more & register here: https://amiprague.cz/events/school-strategic-plan-a-living-framework-for-collaboration/

“Maybe you’re having a hard time right now and don’t know why. Maybe the strategy lives only in your head. You’re not alone—let’s work through this together.”

 Hanka Chramostova