THE HIGHLANDS SCHOOL

Claudia Nachtigal, head of The Highlands School, didn’t set out to choose education; she simply spent her life in the service of helping others thrive. Opened in 1996, the school offers an academic program designed for students with learning differences and achievement gaps. It has grown into a thriving K–8 school. The Highlands School has been recognized as Best Private School in Harford County by Best of Harford, with Nachtigal also named Best Principal. Nachtigal has a certificate in advanced education leadership from Harvard Graduate School of Education, a master’s in theological studies, and was named one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women by The Daily Record. She is known for her ability to bring people together around a shared mission—and to make sure families know their children don’t have to suffer through school.