Dr. Ed Blades brings a wealth of experience in leadership, strategic oversight, and long-term planning to his role as Board Treasurer at Montessori Children’s School. With a distinguished career in medicine and a deep-rooted commitment to education, he plays a key role in ensuring the school’s financial health and sustainability.

Born in Boston as the fourth of ten children, Dr. Blades attended parochial schools before earning his undergraduate degree at Harvard. Initially pursuing medical school at Harvard, he later completed his studies at Columbia University in New York City, followed by an internship, residency, and GI fellowship at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University, where he also served as Chief Resident—an experience he describes as the best job ever. He went on to build a successful 30-year career in private practice as a gastroenterologist and remains an Associate Professor of Medicine at CWRU.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Blades has dedicated much of his life to mentorship and community engagement. As a father of four (three sons and one daughter), he spent 15 years coaching youth soccer and baseball, fostering teamwork, perseverance, and growth in young athletes. Now, as a proud grandfather to six granddaughters, his love for education and child development continues through his work with MCS.

A lifelong learner with a passion for travel, reading, cooking, and wine, Dr. Blades brings a thoughtful, big-picture perspective to the MCS Board. His appreciation for places like the Rockies, Napa Valley, and Italy reflects his belief in exploration and discovery—values deeply aligned with the Montessori philosophy.

In his role as Treasurer, Dr. Blades leverages his expertise in problem-solving, strategic planning, and financial stewardship to help guide MCS into the future. His commitment to supporting the school’s mission ensures that MCS remains a thriving environment where children, families, and educators can flourish.