Lead Toddler Teacher

Guidepost Montessori • Naperville, 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 creating a calm, purposeful, orderly classroom that encourages curiosity, exploration, independence, and confidence. Through observation, individualized lessons, and respectful guidance, the Lead Toddler Guide supports children's language, coordination, self-regulation, and development. The Guide also builds trusting relationships with children and families and collaborates with parents and team members to support each child's growth and create a respectful, joyful classroom community.

The toddler environment includes Montessori materials, open spaces, child-sized furniture and tools, practical-life curriculum, materials for motor development, natural elements, and opportunities for movement and exploration.

Guidepost Montessori is a network of over 100 schools across the U.S. and Asia, serving children from 3 months to 6 years old. The organization says its mission is to nurture independence, joy, and lifelong learning, and it is committed to equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodations for employees and applicants with disabilities or special needs.

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

Nice To Haves

• A previously earned Montessori diploma.

Responsibilities

• Observe each child to understand and support their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Prepare and maintain an orderly classroom that fosters focus, independence, and exploration.
• Encourage toddlers to develop independence and do things for 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 experience and education.
• 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: Mid Level