Primary Lead Guide

Full-Time | Primary Program Launch | Start:
Academic Year 2026

Location: Capitol Hill, Washington D.C.

Starling Montessori School is seeking a dedicated and experienced Montessori Primary Lead Guide to join our community for the launch of our Primary (3–6) program beginning in the 2026 academic year
. This role offers a meaningful opportunity to partner in the thoughtful creation of a new Primary environment grounded in authentic Montessori practice.

We are looking for a guide who is inspired by careful preparation, observation-based teaching, and collaboration, and who is excited to steward a classroom from its earliest stages.

• Montessori Primary (3–6) certification from a MACTE-accredited teacher education program
• Candidates currently enrolled in a Primary training program will be considered
• Strong understanding of Montessori philosophy, child development, and mixed-age classroom dynamics
• Commitment to reflective practice, collaboration, and ongoing professional growth

The Primary Lead Guide will play a central role in the design, launch, and ongoing development of Starling’s Primary classroom. Working in partnership with school leadership, the guide will thoughtfully prepare the physical environment, establish classroom rhythms and culture, and support continuity for children transitioning from Toddler into Primary.

The classroom will serve a mixed-age community of approximately 10-16 children, supported by trained assistants. The Lead Guide will be responsible for:

• Preparing and maintaining a beautiful, orderly, and developmentally appropriate Montessori environment
• Offering individualized lessons grounded in careful observation and Montessori scope and sequence
• Supporting children’s independence, concentration, and social-emotional development
• Establishing a calm, respectful classroom culture rooted in grace and courtesy
• Collaborating with assistants to ensure consistency and high-quality classroom practice
• Partnering with families through clear communication and Montessori education
• Working closely with colleagues to support alignment across programs and the long-term growth of the school

Starling Montessori School is a growing, mission-driven Montessori community serving children from Toddler through early childhood. We are deeply committed to Montessori practice, respectful relationships, and thoughtful preparation of both the environment and the adults who serve children.

As we expand our Primary program, we are seeking a guide who values stewardship, collaboration, and the responsibility of launching a classroom with care and intention. This role is well-suited to a guide who enjoys contributing to program development while remaining grounded in the daily work of the classroom.

Learn more about us at

We review applications on a rolling basis and encourage early submissions. Our academic year program start date is August 24th 2026 with opportunities for onboarding, classroom planning, and program preparation in late Spring/Summer 2026.

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and brief cover letter describing their Montessori training, classroom experience, and interest in supporting the launch of Starling Montessori School’s Primary program.

Applications should be submitted via email info