Lumina Early Learning Group, LLC | Bethesda, Maryland About the Role Lumina Early Learning Group, LLC is seeking a Lead PreK teacher/Montessori Guide to lovingly and confidently lead a Primary (3-5 years) classroom in our Bethesda early learning community. Our program is Montessori-inspired , with a strong emphasis on independence, purposeful learning, respect for the child, and thoughtfully prepared environments. Global citizenship is also central to our educational approach, helping children develop curiosity about the wider world, appreciation for different cultures and perspectives, kindness, and a sense of belonging within a diverse community. This role is for a guide who understands that Montessori is not a checklist, but a way of being with children. You will prepare and protect the environment, observe deeply, guide intentionally, and cultivate independence, concentration, and joy. You are not just running a classroom. You are stewarding a community. This position is available immediately. What You'll Do As a Lead Guide/Teacher, you will: Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly, and responsive Montessori environment Present Montessori lessons aligned with the developmental needs of children ages 3-5 Observe children closely and use observations to guide individualized instruction Foster independence, grace and courtesy, concentration, and intrinsic motivation Support social-emotional development with calm, respectful guidance Incorporate meaningful opportunities for children to experience different cultures, languages, traditions, stories, music, and perspectives as part of our global citizenship focus Help children develop respect and care for themselves, their classroom community, others, and the wider world Partner with assistants to ensure consistency and flow throughout the day Communicate professionally and thoughtfully with families and leadership Maintain classroom documentation and compliance aligned with licensing and accreditation standards Required Qualifications To be considered for this role, candidates must: Have at least one year of experience teaching in a licensed child care center or school setting Meet Maryland COMAR requirements for a Lead Teacher or willing to obtain prior to starting (90 Hours Preschool Certification) Montessori certification for the Primary (3-6) age group (AMI, AMS, or equivalent) Preferred not required Demonstrate a strong understanding of child development and Montessori philosophy Be reliable, reflective, and committed to professional growth What You Bring You are someone who: Leads with calm confidence and quiet authority Values observation over control Sees each child as capable, curious, and worthy of respect Collaborates well with assistants and leadership Maintains consistency while remaining flexible and responsive Finds joy in the rhythm of the Montessori day Values diversity, cultural awareness, and helping children develop curiosity about people and the world around them Understands that a strong classroom community is built through respect, responsibility, independence, and belonging What We Offer The opportunity to take a meaningful leadership role within our program Professional autonomy within a supportive leadership structure Ongoing professional development Competitive compensation Childcare tuition discounts Paid time off and paid holidays Clear opportunities for professional growth and advancement About Lumina Early Learning Group Lumina Early Learning Group, LLC is an early childhood education program located in Bethesda, Maryland , serving young children and their families in a nurturing, engaging, and thoughtfully prepared learning environment. Our educational approach draws from Montessori principles while incorporating inquiry, creativity, and global citizenship . We believe children are capable learners who should be given meaningful opportunities to develop independence, confidence, curiosity, and respect for themselves, others, and the world around them. Our global citizenship focus introduces children to the richness of different cultures, languages, traditions, communities, and perspectives in developmentally appropriate ways. We want children to grow not only as confident learners, but as kind, curious, and thoughtful members of an interconnected world . We also believe exceptional early childhood programs begin with exceptional educators. Our goal is to create a workplace where teachers feel respected, supported, and encouraged to continue growing in their practice. Equal Employment Opportunity Lumina Early Learning Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Pay:

$20.00 - $25.00 per hour Expected hours: 8.0 per week

Benefits:

Paid time off Professional development assistance

Experience:

childcare in a licensed center: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

90 Hour Preschool Certification (Required)

Work Location:

In person