Spanish Lead Preschool Teacher - job 1 of 2

As a Spanish Lead Preschool Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, your key responsibilities will include observing and understanding each child's unique needs, preparing a nurturing learning environment, providing individual and small-group lessons, and cultivating self-confidence in your students. You will also be responsible for building strong relationships with each child and their parents to ensure the best support and communication.

To join Guidepost Montessori as a Spanish Lead Preschool Teacher, you should have at least a Bachelor's Degree, preferably along with 12 Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development credits. A Montessori diploma for ages 3-6 is preferred, and being a native Spanish speaker is essential. Previous experience working with children ages 3-6 in a relevant setting will also help you excel in this role.

Guidepost Montessori is committed to the continuous growth of its educators. As a Spanish Lead Preschool Teacher, you'll have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, including a sponsored Montessori diploma program through the Prepared Montessorian Institute. Our supportive network encourages sharing best practices and resources to enhance your teaching skills.

The salary range for a Spanish Lead Preschool Teacher at Guidepost Montessori in Santa Clarita is approximately $42,000 to $45,000 per year. This competitive salary reflects the vital work you will do to support the growth and development of our children.

At Guidepost Montessori, Spanish Lead Preschool Teachers enjoy a range of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays, a 75% tuition discount for two children, and abundant opportunities for career growth within our network of schools. We value our educators and ensure they have the support they need to thrive.

When creating a Montessori learning environment, I focus on beauty and order, ensuring materials are accessible and arranged in a way that encourages independence. I select child-sized furniture and incorporate practical life materials to allow children to engage in real-life tasks, promoting their autonomy and confidence.

In my previous role, I worked with a child who struggled with social interactions. I observed their play and identified activities that fostered cooperative learning. By pairing them with a peer for collaborative projects and providing them with tailored support, they developed essential social skills and began to form meaningful connections with classmates.

I prioritize open and respectful communication with parents by holding regular conferences, sharing development updates, and maintaining an open-door policy for questions. I also send out newsletters and provide written documentation of each child's progress and achievements to keep parents informed and engaged.

During conflicts or behavioral challenges, I remain calm and attentive to each child's feelings. I encourage them to express their emotions and listen to one another. By guiding them through conflict resolution strategies and reinforcing positive behavior with praise and encouragement, I help create a more harmonious classroom environment.

I believe that fostering independence is vital for children's growth. By providing them opportunities to make choices, solve problems, and learn through exploration, I empower them to take ownership of their learning. This builds self-confidence and allows them to develop skills they need for future success.

I implement Montessori principles in literacy and math by using hands-on activities and materials that promote self-directed learning. For literacy, I introduce phonetic activities using sandpaper letters and storytelling. For math, I use manipulatives such as counting beads and number cards to help children understand mathematical concepts through exploration and play.

I observe children's progress through informal assessments during daily activities, noting their interaction with materials and participation in tasks. I also maintain anecdotal records and portfolios showcasing their work, which I use to evaluate individual development and plan targeted learning experiences.

Collaboration with other educators is essential in a Montessori setting. I regularly participate in team meetings, share insights and strategies, and observe each other's classes to learn from one another. This collaborative approach fosters a supportive environment that benefits our students and enhances our teaching practices.

The most rewarding aspect of being a Lead Preschool Teacher is witnessing the growth and development of my students. Watching them progress from tentative learners to confident individuals who embrace challenges and celebrate their achievements fills me with immense joy and reinforces my passion for education.

Integrating cultural diversity is fundamental in my classroom. I include stories, materials, and activities from various cultures, ensuring that children understand and appreciate differences. If I can connect with families to share their traditions, it enriches our curriculum and fosters a sense of inclusion and respect among students.