Successful leadership in alternative educational institutions. A case study from Montessori Cluj

The European dimension of education must not limit the ability of young people to freely build their own identity. To be able to choose, however, they must firstly learn to know what the alternatives are, especially in the field of education, where orientation is more difficult chosen if models are abandoned in order not to limit the individual’s freedom. In this regard, the European dimension facilitates the formation of the cultural and moral identity of the individuals. In this paper, the authors are providing an overview of the Montessori educational alternative. A history of Montessori development in Romania is described, then the authenticity of Montessori education is presented, followed by the key aspects to be considered in the daily team management and a development plan for the next 5 years.