Lead Montessori Guide

About the Role

As a Lead Montessori Guide you'll help create a nurturing and enriching space for children ages 2 to 6. You'll inspire their curiosity and love for learning through hands‑on exploration, all while following authentic Montessori principles. This is a fantastic chance to build meaningful relationships with children, families, and a supportive team, while encouraging each child's independence, creativity, and growth.

• Create and maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.

• Implement the Montessori curriculum, using appropriate Montessori materials and techniques.

• Observe and assess each child’s development, providing individualized learning plans and Montessori material presentations.

• Maintain regular communication with parents regarding their child’s progress and development.

• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

• Prepare and organize classroom materials to support children’s learning.

• Facilitate group activities and encourage social interaction among children.

• Ensure the safety and well‑being of all children in the classroom.

• Ability to work at a child's level for extended periods of time.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.

• Ability to change diapers as needed.

• Ability to perform light opening/closing duties such as preparing snacks, sweeping, sanitizing tables, putting down/picking up nap cots, washing snack dishes, stocking, and organizing supplies.

• 2+ years of teaching experience in a licensed Montessori childcare center or preschool preferred, with at least 1 year as a Lead Guide required.
• A minimum of 12 semester units in early childhood education or child development.
• A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field is preferred.
• MACTE-accredited 3-6 Montessori credential (AMI, AMS, or IMC/CGMS).
• Certifications in CPR and First Aid.
• Clear a background check (criminal history, fingerprinting through CA DOJ, FBI, and Child Abuse Central Index).
• Complete Mandated Reporter Training within 90 days of employment.
• Complete health screening, including a tuberculosis (TB) test, before starting work.

• $30-$34/hour, depending on your experience and qualifications.
• Health/dental plan, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, retirement savings plan, and professional development opportunities.
• Regular compensation reviews aimed at proactive increases as the school grows.