Maria Erlitz has been named interim head of school at the Bellevue-based Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle for the 2008-2009 school year.

The school serves preschool through eighth grade.

Erlitz is a leading Jewish educator, leadership consultant with the Boston-based Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education (PEJE) and a former Head of School and founder of JDS.

“We are thrilled that Maria is bringing her extensive experience to JDS along with her vision and passion for excellence in education,” said Robert Sulkin, President of the JDS Board of Trustees.

In her 14 years at JDS, she worked as Director of Admissions, Vice Principal and Head of School. She has led the school’s Development efforts, directed the General Studies staff and curriculum and served on the school’s Board of Trustees for nine years including a term as Board President.

Erlitz is a former recipient of the Bellevue Community Council’s Principal of the Year Award and the Jack and Charlotte Spitzer Young Leadership Award. She succeeds Tom Elieff who leaves JDS for a position in Houston

The school is located at 15749 Northeast Fourth Street.