Lead Montessori Guide​/Teacher

Montessori Children’s Center has been a leader in early childhood education for nearly 50 years, guided by the principles of the Montessori philosophy. Situated in Parkmerced, the center provides a year‑round program for preschool‑age children, emphasizing independence, curiosity, and holistic development. Our well‑prepared classrooms foster self‑directed learning, mixed‑age collaboration, and hands‑on exploration in key subjects such as math, language, science, geography, and the arts.

Recognized by the California State Legislature and local leaders, Montessori Children’s Center is proud to continue its legacy under new and dynamic leadership.

The Lead Montessori Teacher (referred to as the Lead Guide in a Montessori classroom) will play a vital role in shaping a nurturing and enriching learning environment for children aged 2 to 6. They will inspire young minds through hands‑on exploration and a love of learning, guided by authentic Montessori principles. This position offers the opportunity to create meaningful relationships with children, families, and a supportive team, all while fostering each child’s independence, creativity, and growth.

• Ensure the safety and well‑being of all children in the classroom.
• Provide care and support to meet the individual needs of the children.
• Supervise children actively in the classroom and outdoor spaces during work, meal, and rest periods.
• 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.
• Ability to work at a child’s level for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.
• Assist children with self‑care and hygiene.
• Ability to perform light opening/closing duties, e.g. preparing snacks, sweeping, sanitizing tables, putting down/picking up nap cots, washing snack dishes, stocking, and organizing supplies.

• Professional expertise in Montessori methodologies, including curriculum planning, lesson implementation, and creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning materials.
• Strong classroom management, organizational, and team leadership skills to guide and support classroom assistants and provide a structured yet flexible learning environment.
• Experience in fostering effective communication and collaboration with families to align on children’s progress and development goals.
• A certification in Montessori education and a proven background in teaching young children, preferably in an early childhood education setting for a minimum of 1 year as Lead Guide of children aged 3‑6.
• Compassionate, patient, and the ability to foster an inclusive and respectful atmosphere that celebrates diversity and supports whole‑child development.
• First Aid/CPR certification and compliance with California childcare regulations is an advantage.
• A minimum of 12 semester units in early childhood education or child development.
• MACTE‑accredited 3‑6 Montessori credential (AMI, AMS, or IMC/CGMS).
• Clear background check (criminal history, fingerprinting through CA DOJ, FBI, and Child Abuse Central Index).
• Completion of Mandated Reporter Training within 90 days of employment.
• Completion of health screening, including a tuberculosis (TB) test, prior to employment.