Lead Preschool Teacher

Guidepost Montessori • Downers Grove, IL

7d

About The Position

Guidepost Montessori is seeking a Lead Toddler Guide (Teacher) to lead a mixed-age young toddler classroom in a Montessori environment designed to support children during a formative stage of development. The teacher prepares an orderly, engaging environment and uses observation, individualized lessons, and respectful guidance to foster children’s language, coordination, self-regulation, independence, and confidence.

The role includes building warm relationships with children and families, communicating with parents about each child’s growth, and collaborating with classroom team members to create a respectful, joyful community. Guidepost toddler classrooms feature child-sized furnishings, Montessori materials, natural elements, and opportunities for movement and exploration.

Guidepost Montessori is a network of more than 100 schools across the U.S. and Asia, serving children from 3 months to 6 years old. The organization’s mission is to transform education by nurturing independence, joy, and lifelong learning. It is committed to equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodation for employees and applicants with disabilities or special needs.

Requirements

• Experience working with babies, infants, and children ages 0–3 in a daycare or preschool classroom, child care, or early learning setting.
• Alignment with child-led educational approaches such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia.
• Required ECE or Child Development credits.
• A college degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a child-related field.

Nice To Haves

• Interest in pursuing fully sponsored Montessori certification through the Prepared Montessorian Institute, or a previously earned Montessori diploma.

Responsibilities

• Observe each child to understand and support their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly classroom that fosters focus, independence, and exploration.
• Encourage toddlers to develop independence by doing tasks themselves.
• Provide lessons in practical life skills, language development, and grace and courtesy.
• Build warm, trusting relationships with children and families.
• Communicate and collaborate with parents to support each child’s growth.
• Lead classroom routines and collaborate with team members to create a respectful, joyful community.

Benefits

• Sponsored Montessori diploma training and ongoing professional development.
• Competitive salary of $40,000–$50,000, depending on education and experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• 75% tuition discount for up to two children at any Guidepost school.
• A collaborative, supportive network of peers and mentors.
• Opportunities for career growth and leadership advancement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager