Floater Montessori Preschool Teacher - job 1 of 3

As a Floater Montessori Preschool Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, your primary responsibilities include supporting Lead Guides in fostering an independent and confident learning environment for children. You will assist in daily classroom activities, help manage the classroom, and participate in the educational development of young children. Your role will allow you to observe and contribute to individualized learning experiences that align with the Montessori philosophy.

To become a Floater Montessori Preschool Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, you should have familiarity with child development, strong interpersonal skills, and a willingness to grow in early childhood education. While a degree in education or related fields is beneficial, we value passion and a customer-service mindset. Additionally, you will need a valid TB test (within the last 12 months) and CPR certification or the willingness to obtain these before your start date.

As a Floater Montessori Preschool Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, you can expect a competitive pay rate of $18/hr along with comprehensive benefits. These include health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K plan, and a generous 75% tuition discount for up to two of your children. These benefits reflect our commitment to supporting the well-being of our educators.

Starting as a Floater Montessori Preschool Teacher at Guidepost Montessori is an excellent way to kick-start your career in education. Many of our Floater Teachers advance into Lead Guide roles as they gain experience and utilize our MACTE-accredited training program. This path creates not only career growth but also opportunities to deepen your understanding of the Montessori approach.

Guidepost Montessori offers access to a MACTE-accredited Montessori training program for Floater Teachers. This program provides valuable knowledge and skills to navigate the Montessori educational approach effectively, enabling you to guide and support children in their learning journeys. Training is a vital part of our commitment to professional development for educators.

When answering this question, explain the core principles of the Montessori approach, emphasizing its focus on fostering independence and individualized learning. Mention how materials are designed to encourage exploration and hands-on interaction, guiding children as they learn at their own pace.

In your response, highlight the importance of patience and observation. Explain how you would assess the child's needs, work on building a trusting relationship, and collaborate with Lead Guides to develop strategies that support the child’s transition into the classroom.

Discuss specific strategies such as setting up a prepared environment, providing choices that empower children, and encouraging problem-solving. Emphasize the value of allowing children to take the lead in their learning experiences and how that nurtures confidence.

Explain your belief in the importance of building strong partnerships with parents. Discuss how you would share updates on their child’s progress, actively listen to their concerns, and collaborate on ensuring the child’s success and well-being.

Mention qualities such as adaptability, empathy, strong communication skills, and a passion for early childhood education. Emphasize how these attributes contribute to creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment.

Provide a specific example where you recognized varied learning preferences among children and how you adjusted your teaching methods accordingly. Discuss the importance of being flexible and attuned to each child's unique needs.

Describe techniques such as offering the child choices, allowing for exploration of their interests, or using interactive materials that can spark their curiosity. The goal is to illustrate your proactive approach to encouraging engagement.

Mention resources you utilize such as professional development workshops, literature, and online courses. Also, convey your commitment to lifelong learning and how being informed enhances your practice.

Discuss the importance of facilitating open communication between the children, guiding them to resolve their conflict, and helping them understand each other's perspectives. It's crucial to emphasize the value of teaching conflict resolution skills.

Express your alignment with Guidepost Montessori’s mission and philosophy. Discuss how the supportive community, commitment to professional growth, and the focus on educating independent thinkers attract you to this specific role.