Substitute Teacher - job 3 of 12

As a Substitute Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, your primary responsibilities include providing coverage for full-time teachers when they are unavailable, managing classrooms with mixed ages, and fostering a productive learning environment. You'll ensure that educational activities continue smoothly while maintaining the Montessori philosophy and principles. This role allows you the flexibility to engage with young learners, all while gaining experience in a supportive and innovative educational setting.

No, formal Montessori training is not required to apply for the Substitute Teacher position at Guidepost Montessori. We understand that everyone’s journey is different, and that’s why we provide thorough training as part of your orientation. Our goal is to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the classroom, ensuring you feel confident while supporting our teachers and guiding our students.

To qualify for the Substitute Teacher role at Guidepost Montessori, you must have a negative TB test within the last twelve months, possess strong interpersonal skills, and have a valid state background check. While it’s beneficial to have early childhood education (ECE) units or recent teaching experience with children aged 0-6, it’s your passion for working with children and your warm demeanor that counts the most!

The work schedule for Substitute Teachers at Guidepost Montessori is flexible and varies based on the school's needs. As this is an on-call position, you'll be contacted when coverage is needed for full-time teachers who may be sick or on vacation. This variability allows you the freedom to manage your time while still contributing meaningfully to our school community.

Working as a Substitute Teacher at Guidepost Montessori can definitely pave the way to a full-time role! Many of our substitutes transition into full-time Assistant Teacher positions as they demonstrate their capability and passion for education. By working closely with our team and gaining valuable experience in a dynamic environment, you’ll be well positioned for future opportunities within the organization.

Express your passion for education and how you resonate with the Montessori philosophy. Discuss specific experiences or motivations that draw you to work with young learners, and highlight any relevant skills or experience you want to share.

Share techniques you would use to foster a positive classroom environment, such as using proactive behavioral strategies and maintaining open communication with students. Provide examples from past experiences if possible.

Explain your approach to redirecting the student's behavior, emphasizing the importance of understanding their perspective and employing positive reinforcement. Share any past experiences to demonstrate your effective strategies.

Discuss group activities, peer mentoring, and personalized learning plans as methods to engage students of different ages. Share how you would adapt activities to fit varying skill levels and learning styles.

Highlight your quick adaptability and willingness to collaborate with full-time teachers beforehand. Discuss how you’d review lesson plans and classroom routines to ensure a seamless transition.

Share a specific example where you had to adjust your methods to cater to different learning preferences or difficulties. Emphasize your flexibility and commitment to student success.

Articulate your understanding of key Montessori principles, such as fostering independence, encouraging exploration, and creating a child-centered learning environment, as well as how these principles influence your teaching.

Explain how you would familiarize yourself with the lesson plan before starting and your commitment to executing it as faithfully as possible, while also being open to the unique dynamics of the class.

Discuss strategies like taking time to greet each child, showing genuine interest in their feelings, and creating an inviting classroom environment that promotes trust and willingness to engage.

Explain how you value feedback and would use it constructively to improve your performance. Emphasize your willingness to learn and grow as an educator in a collaborative environment.