Primary Lead Guide in Wake Forest, NC, US

Job Opportunity: Lead Primary Guide
Location: Wake Forest, NC

About Wake Forest Montessori
WFM is a Montessori school serving children and families in the Town of Wake Forest, NC. Our mission is to enable the children to develop their individual gifts within a respectful, loving and supportive community.

Position Summary:
We are seeking a Primary level certified and experienced Lead Guide to join our dynamic and expanding staff. The Lead Guide must be eligible to teach in the United States. Salary is commensurate with experience and credentials, and is competitive with schools in the area.

If you possess a sincere commitment to building and directing a quality Montessori environment, offering support and guidance to parents, and collaborating with experienced colleagues, please consider joining the Wake Forest Montessori community. The right candidate should possess maturity, dedication, high integrity, good judgment, ability to self-reflect as a member of the teaching staff, and the courage to grow as an educational leader. We seek individuals with a clear understanding of Montessori ideals, deep knowledge of the development of children, and the classroom management and communication skills that nurture self-discipline, order, and confidence in young students. We can offer you a rewarding experience in a growing and diverse Montessori school.

The Lead Guide major areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:

Curriculum
• Establish the extended morning work period and give lessons as needed.
• Establish and maintain a classroom true to the Montessori philosophy, paying particular attention to the needs of the students.
• Implement and update curriculum as student needs dictate.
• Plan, prepare, and maintain all units of study, including Montessori materials, thematic units, library books, etc.
• Collaborate with other Lead Guides to provide consistency of education within corresponding classrooms.

Communication
• Lead parent-teacher conferences to provide parents with a concise yet thorough understanding of each child's progress.
• Maintain periodic informal communication regarding students’ progress and maintain an open and honest dialogue so that parents feel comfortable with the daily workings of the classroom.

Recordkeeping
• Carefully observe and keep daily records on each student's individual progression through the classroom, always being available to offer gentle guidance.
• Complete evaluation and record forms during the school year for conferences and the child’s permanent record.

Staff Involvement
• Establish a harmonious relationship with other Lead Guides to foster collaboration and consistency across classrooms.
• Establish a harmonious relationship with classroom associates to foster a productive classroom environment
• Partner with other staff members on joint programs, Parent Nights, performances, and other events as assigned by the administration
• Participate in all school events that are relevant to the Lead Guide’s specific program and the entire school
• Attend and participate in all staff meetings
Please note that this position is not restricted to the responsibilities above, and the job scope and responsibilities are subject to change.

Competencies:
To perform the position successfully, the Lead Teacher should demonstrate the following competencies:
• Commitment: Displays passionate commitment to an authentic Montessori education, a deep understanding of its tenets, and an ability to advocate its benefits
both internally and externally. Possesses a genuine interest in children and their intellectual and social development.
• Leadership: Exhibits an exceptional balance of confidence and competence necessary to lead and motivate. Energetically inspires continuous improvement and/or change. Believes in, supports, and lives the WFM mission and core values.
• Interpersonal Skills: Engaging, approachable, self-assured. Treats others with respect. Proactively builds and maintains positive relationships with peers, parents, and students. Displays a high level of professionalism. Responds calmly to stressful situations.
• Communication: Creates and promotes an environment of open and honest communication. Displays excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Results Orientation: Maintains high standards for personal performance. Seeks and acts on feedback for self-development. Takes accountability for mistakes.
Follows through on promised commitments in a timely manner. Resourceful and enthusiastic when approaching problems.
• Planning and Organization: Maintains strong operational processes to keep the classroom running smoothly. Adapts lesson plans and environment to meet the needs of the students in the classroom

Qualifications:
• The physical capacity to work with young children, including but not limited to bending, minor lifting, and working on the floor.
• An associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent, and Montessori Certification
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Must be able to pass medical exam for working with children
• A satisfactory NCDHHS background check
• Experience working with children of this age range.
– At least 3 years’ experience in the classroom is desired but not necessary for employment consideration

Interested candidates may email a cover letter and resume to:
Julia Thompson, Director
Email: Julia@wakeforestmontessori.com
Phone: (919) 827-1148
Website: www.wakeforestmontessori.com

WakeForestMontessori.com