Lead Teacher

Guidepost Montessori • Kent, WA

10d • $40,000 - $50,000

About The Position

Guidepost Montessori is hiring a Lead Teacher, also known as a Lead Children's House Guide, to lead a mixed-age preschool classroom for children ages 3–6 in a Montessori environment. The role centers on helping children become confident, capable learners through prepared environments, respectful individualized guidance, and support for their independence, concentration, and joy in learning.

The Lead Teacher observes children and provides individualized and small-group lessons to support their academic, physical, social, and emotional development. They prepare and maintain an orderly, accessible classroom with Montessori materials and build respectful relationships with children and families. Montessori diploma training is sponsored for candidates who need certification.

The position offers a competitive salary of $40,000–$50,000, a $1,000 sign-on bonus, insurance, paid time off and holidays, tuition discounts, professional development, mentorship, and opportunities for career growth. Guidepost Montessori is a network of over 80 schools across the U.S. and Asia serving children from 3 months to 6 years.

Requirements

• Experience working as a Preschool Teacher or Lead Teacher with children ages 3–6 in a group learning environment.
• Required ECE or Child Development credits.
• Bachelor's degree in any field.
• Alignment with child-led philosophies such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia.

Nice To Haves

• Montessori diploma for ages 3–6, or willingness to obtain certification; training is fully sponsored.

Responsibilities

• Observe each child closely to understand and support their physical, intellectual, and emotional development.
• Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly classroom that fosters concentration and independence.
• Encourage children's self-confidence by supporting them as they learn to do things independently.
• Provide individualized and small-group lessons in practical life, literacy, math, and other areas.
• Build strong, respectful relationships with children and families.
• Communicate and collaborate with parents to support each child's growth.
• Lead the classroom with warmth, professionalism, and purpose.
• Use a prepared Montessori environment with accessible materials and spaces to support independent and small-group work.

Benefits

• $1,000 sign-on bonus.
• Sponsored Montessori diploma training through the Prepared Montessorian Institute.
• Ongoing professional development and mentorship.
• Competitive salary of $40,000–$50,000.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• 75% tuition discount for up to two children at any Guidepost school.
• Supportive network of passionate educators.
• Opportunities for career growth and leadership advancement.

What This Job Offers

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