Lead Montessori Teacher

Who are we? Montessori Children's Center (MCC) in San Francisco has been a leader in Montessori education since 1976. We are dedicated to helping children feel that they belong in the world and that the world belongs to them. Who do we serve? We are a classical Montessori school for children aged 2 to 6 where families feel supported, teachers are well cared for, and where the learning environment extends from the classroom to nature. How do we serve our teachers? We deeply value the experience, care, and dedication that educators bring to a thriving school community. We recognize that teaching is both joyful and demanding, and we believe that all teachers deserve ongoing appreciation and support. That support includes generous time off. Our calendar includes two weeks of paid summer break, two weeks of winter break, one week of spring break, mandated closures, and all federal holidays, in addition to sick and emergency leave. We also believe that great educators never stop learning, so we offer opportunities for both personal and professional development, as well as pathways for career advancement. To help sustain a healthy work-life balance, MCC integrates wellness into the workday. Staff have access to wellness amenities within the school, designated wellness days, and an external benefit for professional coaching or therapy. Our goal is to create a workplace where teachers feel respected, nurtured and ready to grow.

About the role:

The Lead Montessori Guide, with a Toddler (2-3) or Primary (3-6) age focus, 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.

Responsibilities:

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 (if leading the Toddler Program). 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

2+ years of teaching experience in a licensed Montessori childcare center or preschool preferred, at least 1 year as a Lead Guide required. A minimum of 12 semester units in early childhood education or child development, with core units in Child/Human Growth Development, Child, Family and Community and Programs Curriculum from a college or university accredited by regional institutions, e.g. the Western Association of Schools and Colleges - WASC. A bachelor's degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field is preferred. MACTE-accredited Infant/Toddler or 3-6 Montessori credential (AMI, AMS, or

IMC/CGMS

). Certifications in CPR and First Aid. 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.

Compensation and Benefits:

Starting at $35 per hour or higher, with pay determined by experience and qualifications. Health and dental plan, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, retirement savings plan, and professional development opportunities. Discounted housing benefit in the Parkmerced neighborhood of San Francisco. Access to therapy/coaching benefit. Regular compensation reviews with the goal of proactive increases as the school grows.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance Application Question(s): Will you now or in the future require work visa sponsorship in the United States? Have you completed 12 or more Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development units recognized by the State of California? Have you completed or are in the process of completing an accredited Montessori teacher training program?

Experience:

Montessori teaching: 1 year (Required) Ability to

Commute:

San Francisco, CA 94132 (Required)

Work Location:

In person