Lead Teacher - job 1 of 3

As a Lead Teacher at Guidepost Montessori in Dublin, Ohio, your main responsibility will be to support a mixed-age class of preschool children in a Montessori setting. You’ll create a prepared environment that fosters independence and engagement, provide individual and small-group lessons in skills essential for the children’s development, and communicate effectively with parents to support the child’s journey.

To become a Lead Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, candidates should have prior experience working with children ages 6 weeks to 6 years in a group setting. A Bachelor’s Degree in any subject is required, along with an interest in pursuing certified Montessori training through the Prepared Montessorian Institute or a previously obtained Montessori diploma.

A Lead Teacher at Guidepost Montessori supports children's development by closely observing each child to understand their individual needs. By providing personalized lessons in practical skills, literacy, and math, as well as fostering a sense of community and respect, the Lead Teacher empowers children to cultivate independence and self-confidence.

Guidepost Montessori offers its Lead Teachers a range of benefits including a competitive salary, health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, and a 75% tuition discount for their children. Moreover, they provide opportunities for ongoing professional development and career growth within a supportive community.

The Montessori approach at Guidepost Montessori emphasizes independence, self-directed learning, and respect for a child’s natural development. The classrooms are equipped with carefully prepared environments filled with high-quality educational materials that encourage hands-on learning and exploration, allowing children to thrive at their own pace.

To create a nurturing environment, I plan to ensure that the classroom is beautifully organized, with materials accessible to children. I believe in forming personal connections with each child, nurturing their independence, and fostering a sense of community, which is central to the Montessori approach.

In my previous roles, I've implemented various child-led learning philosophies, especially Montessori principles, which emphasize the importance of allowing children to take charge of their learning. This involves respecting their interests and providing the space for them to explore at their own pace, ensuring that every child feels confident and engaged.

I evaluate individual needs through regular observation, assessing each child’s interests, strengths, and areas for growth. Based on these observations, I tailor lessons and materials to challenge them appropriately while providing the necessary support to foster their development.

I believe strong communication with parents is key to supporting their child's education. I would offer regular updates on their child’s progress, involve them in classroom activities, and create opportunities for them to share their insights, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits the children.

To promote independence, I provide children with choices and responsibilities within the classroom. I encourage them to engage in practical life activities like cleaning and organizing, which not only build their skills but also foster a sense of achievement and self-regulation.

In handling conflicts, I would guide the children through a process of reflection, helping them articulate their feelings and perspectives. Encouraging them to come up with solutions together fosters problem-solving skills and teaches them essential social skills.

The most important quality in a Lead Teacher is the ability to connect with children authentically. Building trust and understanding with students creates an environment where they feel safe to explore and learn. This connection catalyzes their growth and fosters a love for education.

I evaluate my teaching methods by regularly reflecting on student outcomes and engagement levels. Feedback from parents and observations of children’s progress in their learning journeys also offer insights into how effectively my methods are resonating with them.

One successful lesson involved a hands-on activity on measuring ingredients for a simple cooking task. The children practiced math skills while enjoying the process, which made learning tangible and engaging, demonstrating their understanding of mathematical concepts in a way that felt meaningful to them.

I stay current with Montessori teaching practices by participating in professional development workshops, attending Montessori conferences, and engaging with a network of fellow educators. I regularly read literature on Montessori philosophies to ensure that I remain updated on best practices.