Lower Elementary Montessori Guide; Ages 6–| Shepherd Montessori School| South Bend

Overview

Lower Elementary Montessori Guide (Ages 6–9) – Good Shepherd Montessori School, South Bend, IN

Role:
Lower Elementary Montessori Guide (Ages 6–9) |

Location:

South Bend, IN | Salary: $40K — $46K, based on experience

The Mission:
Good Shepherd Montessori School is a diverse, cooperative learning community that uses the Montessori method to nurture the character and uniqueness of the child and to inspire wonder and a joy of learning. The school fosters spiritual growth in the Christian tradition and cultivates compassionate relationships with all people and just stewardship of the world’s resources. The school seeks a dedicated and experienced Lower Elementary Lead Guide for the 2026–2027 academic year to contribute to an authentic Montessori program that values hands-on exploration, environmental stewardship, and the development of compassionate global citizens.

Located on an urban farm, the school serves children from early childhood through junior high with a land-based learning program and a commitment to social justice.

The Lower Elementary Lead Guide will join a team that values authenticity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to Montessori principles. Reporting to the Head of School, the Lead Guide will work in partnership with assistants, specialists, and families to guide each child’s academic and personal growth in alignment with Montessori philosophy and the school’s mission.

• Montessori 6–9 or 6–12 certification (MACTE accredited)
• Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field
• 2–3 years of experience working with elementary-aged children
• Commitment to authentic Montessori practice
• Experience with neurodiverse learners and high emotional intelligence
• Strong collaboration skills to build relationships with children, families, and colleagues
• A passion for fostering independence, curiosity, and love of learning
• Commitment to children

• Planning, Preparation, and Instruction:
  Design and facilitate Montessori instruction for students ages 6–9; create interdisciplinary, inquiry-driven lessons appropriate for the second plane of development; differentiate instruction as necessary; maintain student records, including progress reports and conference notes; collaborate with faculty and staff across campus
• Classroom Environment and Management:
  Maintain a prepared environment that fosters independence and responsibility; model conflict resolution and community-building strategies; establish community and routines to support social development; guide students in balancing freedom with responsibility
• Communication:
  Build strong relationships with students and families through regular communication; contribute to school publications when necessary; conduct conferences and complete progress reports; support parent understanding of Montessori philosophy; participate in scheduled family engagement events
• Professional Responsibility:
  Participate in staff meetings and school events; engage in monthly professional development opportunities; help maintain indoor and outdoor prepared environments

• Position Type:
  Full-time, 10-month position starting August 2026
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with 75% of the premium covered by the school
• Tuition remission (minimum 80% covered by the school)
• Generous PTO policy
• Professional development support
• * Partially funded by the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program (voucher)

To express interest or request more information, please send your resume to: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

Good Shepherd Montessori School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, creed, religion, sex or gender, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, or in any other way based on personal identity markers that do not relate to the capacity of an individual person to carry out the responsibilities of a role.