Lead Toddler Teacher

Guidepost Montessori • Evanston, IL

4d • $40,000 - $50,000

About The Position

Guidepost Montessori is hiring a Lead Toddler Guide to lead a mixed-age toddler classroom in a Montessori environment designed to support children during a formative stage of development. The role involves preparing a beautiful, orderly classroom that invites exploration and independence, and using observation, individualized lessons, and respectful guidance to support children’s language, coordination, self-regulation, and confidence.

The Lead Toddler Guide helps children make choices and take pride in their accomplishments, while building warm relationships with children and families. The role also includes collaborating with parents and colleagues to support each child’s development and create a respectful, joyful classroom community.

The classroom is equipped with Montessori materials and features open spaces, child-sized furniture and tools, materials for fine and gross motor development, natural elements, and opportunities for children to move and explore. Guidepost Montessori offers sponsored Montessori diploma training, ongoing professional development, and opportunities for career growth and leadership advancement.

Requirements

• Experience working with children ages 0–3 in a group care or early learning setting.
• Alignment with child-led educational approaches such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia.
• Required ECE or Child Development credits.
• Bachelor’s degree in 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