Primary Guide

Job Title:

Montessori Primary Guide (Certified)

Location:

Charleston Montessori School
Position Type:
Full-Time, 10-Month Contract
Salary: $40,000–$45,000 annually (based on experience and credentials)

At Charleston Montessori School, our mission is:

“To provide an authentic Montessori education in a nurturing and collaborative environment, inspiring children to develop independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.”

We serve approximately 120 students, ages 2 through 6th grade, in a community that values respect, curiosity, and growth. At CMS, we pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment for Guides and Assistants, offering competitive salary, dedicated planning time, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative, mission-driven culture.

We are seeking a dedicated, Montessori-certified Primary Guide to lead a 3–6 classroom for the upcoming school year.

The Primary Guide is responsible for leading a fully implemented Montessori environment for children ages 3–6, honoring the integrity of the Montessori method while fostering a nurturing and engaging classroom community. The Guide serves as the instructional leader of the classroom and works in partnership with an Assistant to maintain a normalized, purposeful environment.

At CMS, Primary Guides work with 20–24 students daily, including 10 third-year children in the afternoons in a dedicated third-year space, with an emphasis on literacy and the science of reading.

• Montessori Primary Certification (AMI, AMS, or MACTE-accredited program required)
• Experience in a Montessori Primary classroom preferred
• Strong classroom leadership and organizational skills
• Excellent communication skills with children, families, and colleagues
• Commitment to completing the full 3-year cycle with students

Bachelor’s degree not required.

• Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly, and developmentally appropriate Montessori environment
• Deliver precise, individualized lessons aligned with Montessori scope and sequence
• Maintain accurate student records, lesson plans, and progress reports
• Foster strong partnerships with families through conferences and regular communication
• Collaborate with administration and staff to support school-wide initiatives
• Lead classroom management and guide assistant in supporting the environment
• Uphold the mission and values of authentic Montessori education

We support our Guides and Assistants by offering:

• Competitive salary ($40,000–$45,000 for a 10-month contract)
• Dedicated planning time
• Professional development opportunities
• Small class sizes and focused third-year instruction
• A collaborative, mission-driven school culture

Charleston, West Virginia, is a vibrant city along the Kanawha River, offering a mix of small-town charm and city amenities. Residents enjoy a rich arts scene, abundant outdoor recreation in the nearby Appalachian Mountains, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a welcoming community. Charleston combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a great place to live and work while raising a family.

Please send your resume and cover letter to the Head of School at ang

We look forward to welcoming a passionate Montessori Guide to our community.