Children''s House Primary Montessori Teacher / Guide

The Montessori Children''s House Teacher is responsible for guiding children ages 3-6 in a prepared environment grounded in authentic Montessori philosophy and practice. This role is central to creating a warm, orderly, and intellectually rich classroom community where young children develop independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of Montessori materials and methodology, a calm and nurturing presence, and a genuine joy in observing and supporting each child''s unique developmental journey. The Children''s House teacher understands that the role is one of guide and observer - creating the conditions for children to teach themselves.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Environment & Preparation

• Design, maintain, and continuously refine a prepared environment that is beautiful, orderly, and responsive to the developmental needs of children ages 3-6
• Ensure all Montessori materials are complete, in good condition, and properly presented on shelves
• Organize the classroom to support freedom of movement, independence, and purposeful work
• Introduce new materials and activities in alignment with individual children''s readiness and developmental progression
• Maintain a calm, respectful classroom atmosphere consistent with Montessori principles

Curriculum & Instruction

• Present Montessori lessons across all curriculum areas including Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural Studies
• Observe each child carefully and use observations to guide individualized lesson planning and material progression
• Support the development of pre-reading, early literacy, and early numeracy skills through the Montessori sequence
• Foster oral language development, vocabulary, and communication skills throughout the daily environment
• Introduce and guide children through grace and courtesy lessons to build a respectful, cooperative community

Child Development & Observation

• Conduct and document regular, systematic observations of each child''s work, interests, and developmental progress
• Recognize and support sensitive periods for language, order, movement, and sensory refinement
• Support the development of concentration, coordination, independence, and order - the four pillars of Montessori early childhood development
• Identify children who may benefit from additional support or evaluation and communicate proactively with the director and families
• Guide children through conflict resolution using calm, respectful, and age-appropriate strategies

Family Engagement & Communication

• Build warm, trusting relationships with families and serve as a primary point of contact for daily communication
• Conduct parent orientation sessions to introduce families to Montessori philosophy and Children''s House expectations
• Prepare and deliver written progress reports and participate in parent-teacher conferences
• Communicate regularly with families regarding their child''s progress, classroom life, and any areas of concern
• Engage families as partners in supporting the child''s development at home and school

Classroom Community & Daily Routines

• Facilitate morning and closing circles, snack preparation, outdoor time, and other community routines
• Supervise and support children during all parts of the school day including arrival, dismissal, lunch, and rest as applicable
• Model grace, courtesy, and respect in all interactions with children, families, and colleagues
• Maintain a consistent daily schedule that provides security and predictability for young children

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

• Work closely with assistant teachers and classroom aides to ensure a cohesive, supportive classroom team
• Participate in regular staff meetings, professional development days, and school-wide events
• Maintain accurate attendance, incident, and developmental records in accordance with school and licensing requirements
• Support enrollment and new family orientation activities as needed
• Assist in maintaining compliance with state childcare licensing regulations

Professional Growth

• Maintain Montessori credential and pursue ongoing professional development in early childhood education and Montessori pedagogy
• Stay current with research in early childhood development and apply best practices in the classroom
• Engage in reflective practice individually and as part of a collaborative faculty

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor''s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field - required for MPCP compliance
• Valid Wisconsin DPI teaching license in one of the following:
• Early Childhood (EC) license, birth through age 8
• Early Childhood through Middle Childhood (EC-MC), birth through grade 6
• OR active enrollment in a Wisconsin DPI approved licensure program with commitment to obtain licensure within the timeframe required by MPCP regulations
• Montessori Early Childhood (3-6) credential from an AMI or AMS accredited training program, or active enrollment in such a program with commitment to complete within an agreed-upon timeframe
• Demonstrated knowledge of Montessori philosophy, materials, and methodology for the 3-6 age group
• Familiarity with Wisconsin Early Learning Standards (WELS) and ability to integrate them within a Montessori framework
• Warm, patient, and calm demeanor with young children
• Strong observational skills and ability to translate observations into individualized planning
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with families and colleagues
• Ability to work collaboratively with assistant teachers and support staff

Preferred

• 2+ years of lead teaching experience in a Montessori Children''s House classroom
• Experience with portfolio-based or narrative assessment
• Bilingual skills a plus
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain
• Familiarity with state childcare licensing requirements

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package, including health, vision, dental, disability and life insurance; 401(k) with matching contribution; competitive paid time off.
• Small, independent school environment in a newly renovated and expanded campus, including an award-winning children's garden/playground/outdoor space (2016 Merit Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects).
• A community of passionate, committed Montessori educators, staff and families who believe in our mission.

Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and families.