Gary Bowman is currently serving in his 15th year as Executive Director/Superintendent at California Montessori Project, serving 2,700 students on 8 campuses in the greater Sacramento area. CMP is authorized through four school districts, including: Buckeye USD, Elk Grove USD, Sacramento City USD, and San Juan USD.
During his tenure at CMP, the organization has built two schools using Prop. 55 funds, and recently received a $12.5 million Prop. 51 rehab. award for the CMP-American River Campus. CMP has dual-accreditations and has been recognized for its robust approach in upgrading its technological infrastructure to address contemporary needs.
A former traditional district superintendent, firefighter, and zookeeper, Gary embraces the opportunities and challenges of the charter school movement and is excited about the untapped potential that lies ahead for students, families, and staff who have chosen charter schools as their ‘hope for the future.” Gary also sits on the board of the American Montessori Society. In his spare time, Gary hikes big mountains, runs a lot, and makes noise on his 5-string banjo. Gary’s leadership style is based on values of relationship, empowerment and servant leadership.