Elementary Lead Guide

Meridian Learning seeks an Elementary Lead Guide for Meridian Micro School, a 6–12 mixed-age classroom community in Cincinnati, Ohio.

This role goes beyond traditional teaching—it is an opportunity to guide children through discovery, independence, and meaningful work in a mindful, relationship-centered microschool. You will prepare and maintain an intentional environment, present clear lessons, and model calm, consistent leadership within a small, mission-driven community.

• View teaching as a vocation rooted in preparation, presence, and reflection
• Bring steadiness, curiosity, and follow‑through
• Understand—or be eager to learn—modern Montessori philosophy in practice
• Welcome active mentorship and feedback as part of professional growth
• Collaborate with an assistant and enrichment guides to maintain a prepared environment
• Engage warmly with families while maintaining clear, professional boundaries within a small community setting
• Value long‑term relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills

Daily outdoor learning is a core element of Meridian’s program. The Elementary Lead Guide is expected to:

• Lead a minimum of one full hour outdoors every school day
• Guide weekly creek exploration experience
• Treat outdoor time as essential curriculum
• Maintain consistent outdoor rhythms regardless of pacing in other academic areas
• Model confidence, preparation, and comfort in outdoor environments

Nature is part of the prepared environment. This role requires physical presence, mobility, and comfort guiding children in natural spaces.

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Montessori training preferred, though not required. If untrained, completion of Meridian’s partnered nine‑month initial training program is a condition of employment (tuition assistance available).
• Three‑year commitment to the classroom and community
• Background check required; CPR and First Aid certification before start

This position requires on‑site presence four days per week, with some weeks extending to five depending on the school calendar. The guide is expected to remain until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with designated classroom preparation and planning time from 2:30 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. Fridays are led by our dedicated Forest Guide twice per month; the Elementary Lead Guide is not required to work on those days unless otherwise arranged.

Starting pay is $23–27/hour, commensurate with experience and previous training. Compensation reflects the support of an in‑class assistant and structured planning time during the week.

Please send a letter of introduction and résumé to (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

Founded in 2016, Meridian Micro School reflects a deep and sustained commitment to whole child well‑being and student‑led inquiry. Classes combine hands‑on learning and community experiences, guided by the Montessori philosophy. We support children in their desire to become mindful stewards of a rapidly changing, interconnected world, and parents in their desire to remain connected, primary learning facilitators in this process.