Job Openings 2025-2026 School Year
Montessori Guides: Toddler in San Diego, California, US
Montessori Explorer & Keynote Montessori is part of the Scientia Education Solution family. We have locations in Chula Vista, Hillcrest, San Marcos, fall of 2025 & Oceanside, Escondido, Fall of 2026.
“Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, creative learning environment for the whole person”. The school provides “Individualized Education" in all areas of the program. Opportunities are provided for students to achieve knowledge and self-worth through freedom and to learn in a way that respects their individual needs. Scientia Education Solution is dedicated to total quality education.
The Scientia Education Solution family of school’s philosophy is to provide an environment that uses the Montessori methodology to unlock the full potential of the child.
Our vision is to provide an authentic Montessori environment for all children regardless of where they come from with respect and dignity. We believe all children are unique and have the potential to flourish when an environment is provided for them.
At Scientia Education Solution family of Montessori schools, we believe that Montessori and early childhood educators from various backgrounds compliment the diversity of our community. We offer an environment where you feel empowered, supported and respected. We expect all our team members to follow our mission and vision by valuing your unique perspective, strengths, teaching style, and background. We want you to feel included and comfortable being your true self. You are equally as important as the children and the families we serve.
We are seeking individuals who align with our mission, vision, and belief. If you believe that you are one who can execute our mission and vision, please apply.
Job Overview: Montessori Explorer & Keynote Montessori is seeking dedicated and passionate Montessori Guides to join our growing team to lead our toddler and primary, and elementary classrooms (ages 18 months-12 years old). The ideal candidate is passionate about the Montessori approach to education with a strong background in early childhood education. We are looking for a collaborative, flexible, team-minded and nurturing individual for this full-time position. Compensation is dependent upon education and experience.
Essential Skills:
A Montessori Guide (teacher) requires a unique set of skills to foster an environment that encourages independence, curiosity, and a love for learning.
- Knowledge of Montessori Philosophy & Methodology
- Deep understanding of Montessori principles
- Ability to apply Dr. Maria Montessori’s theories in practice
- Awareness of the planes of development (ages 0-6, 6-12, etc.)
- Observation & Assessment
- Keen observation skills to assess each child’s needs
- Ability to recognize sensitive periods for learning
- Conduct ongoing, non-intrusive assessments
- Classroom Management & Prepared Environment
- Organizing and maintaining a prepared environment
- Ensuring a peaceful, structured classroom
- Rotating materials to match children’s developmental stages
- Guidance & Facilitation (Not Direct Instruction)
- Encouraging independence and self-directed learning
- Knowing when to intervene and when to step back
- Providing grace and courtesy lessons
- Strong Communication Skills
- Effective communication with children, parents, and colleagues
- Ability to model respectful and clear communication
- Giving concise, engaging, and age-appropriate presentations
- Patience & Emotional Intelligence
- Remaining calm and patient, even in challenging situations
- Practicing empathy and understanding each child’s emotions
- Encouraging a growth mindset
- Problem-Solving & Adaptability
- Adjusting lessons to fit individual learning needs
- Adapting to different classroom dynamics and challenges
- Creative problem-solving when conflicts arise
- Hands-on Approach & Material Knowledge
- Proficiency in presenting Montessori materials (sensorial, language, math, etc.)
- Ensuring hands-on learning through concrete experiences
- Supporting practical life activities
- Cultural Sensitivity & Inclusion
- Respecting and celebrating diverse backgrounds
- Creating an inclusive and welcoming learning environment
- Encouraging multicultural learning experiences
- Passion for Lifelong Learning
- Continually growing as an educator
- Staying updated with new research in child development
- Engaging in Montessori training and professional development
Responsibilities of a Montessori Guide:
The role of a Montessori Guide is a vital one in ensuring that Montessori principles are implemented effectively in the classroom. As a leader of the classroom, the Guide is responsible not only for guiding but also for creating a learning environment that supports each child's development.
- Implementing Montessori Philosophy and Curriculum
- Adhere to Montessori Principles: Foster a learning environment based on self-directed learning, independence, respect for the child, and holistic development (cognitive, social, emotional).
- Develop and Implement Curriculum: Plan and implement Montessori lessons that align with the developmental needs of students, focusing on their individual learning styles and interests.
- Use Montessori Materials: Incorporate the use of Montessori-specific materials to facilitate hands-on, experiential learning that encourages exploration and self-discovery.
- Creating a Prepared Environment
- Classroom Setup: Design and maintain an environment that is orderly, aesthetically pleasing, and accessible to children. Ensure that materials are organized and easily accessible to encourage independent work and exploration.
- Foster Independence: Create an atmosphere where children feel safe to make choices, ask questions, and develop a sense of autonomy.
- Adapt Materials: Continuously assess and adapt materials based on individual student needs, ensuring the classroom environment is engaging and appropriately challenging.
- Observing and Assessing Student Progress
- Individualized Observation: Regularly observe each child’s development, interests, and learning style to guide them in their next steps and adjust the curriculum as needed.
- Record Keeping: Maintain detailed, ongoing records of each child’s progress, including observations, developmental milestones, and academic achievements. Use Learning Genie software to submit DRDP (Desired Results Developmental Profile) observation-based assessment tool used in California to evaluate the development and progress of children in early childhood education programs, including state-subsidized childcare centers. On-site training available.
- Assessment of Learning: Use qualitative assessments and documentation (such as work samples or learning journals) to evaluate students’ progress rather than relying solely on traditional tests or grades.
- Use of assessment tools:
- Supporting Social and Emotional Development
- Promote Positive Behavior: Foster a peaceful, respectful classroom environment where children learn to manage their emotions, resolve conflicts independently, and engage in positive social interactions.
- Encourage Collaboration: Encourage cooperative learning and group activities where children can develop teamwork and communication skills.
- Emotional Support: Be attentive to students' emotional needs and offer guidance to help them develop resilience, empathy, and self-regulation.
- Guiding Children’s Development
- Foster Independence: Encourage children to take responsibility for their own learning and decision-making, helping them develop life skills such as problem-solving and time management.
- Nurture Curiosity: Cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity in children by providing opportunities for open-ended exploration and discovery.
- Respect for the Child: Treat each child with respect, understanding, and patience, allowing them to learn at their own pace and in their own unique way.
- Differentiated Instruction
- Tailor Lessons to Individual Needs: Understand the varying developmental levels of students and differentiate instruction to meet the needs of each child.
- Encourage Critical Thinking: Provide opportunities for children to explore problems, ask questions, and develop critical thinking skills, fostering a love for learning that is both independent and collaborative.
- Classroom Management
- Create a Calm, Orderly Environment: Ensure that the classroom runs smoothly with minimal disruptions, supporting an atmosphere conducive to focused work and learning.
- Establish Classroom Routines: Create consistent routines that promote responsibility, organization, and respect for oneself and others.
- Foster Self-discipline: Help children develop a strong sense of personal responsibility, self-discipline, and respect for the shared environment.
- Collaboration with Parents and Staff
- Parent Communication: Regularly communicate with parents to keep them informed about their child’s progress, classroom activities, and any developmental milestones or challenges. Encourage an open and collaborative relationship.
- Conferences and Meetings: Participate in parent-teacher conferences, meetings, and school events to discuss student progress and maintain strong family-school relationships.
- Collaboration with Colleagues: Work closely with other Montessori educators and staff members to share resources, strategies, and ideas, ensuring consistency and collaboration in the learning environment.
- Professional Development
- Ongoing Learning: Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current on Montessori best practices and new educational strategies.
- Reflection and Growth: Continuously reflect on personal teaching practices, seeking opportunities to grow professionally and to improve the educational experience for the children.
- Maintaining a Safe and Healthy Learning Environment
- Health and Safety: Ensure the physical environment is safe and conducive to learning, with proper sanitation and safety protocols in place.
- Promote Well-being: Encourage healthy habits, including good nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being, which are essential for students’ overall development.
- Role Modeling
- Be a Role Model: Lead by example in terms of behavior, work ethic, respect for others, and commitment to lifelong learning. The Head Teacher is a role model for the children in every aspect.
- Promote Peace and Respect: Actively demonstrate principles of kindness, patience, and respect, which students can emulate in their interactions with others.
- Support Transitions
- Transitioning Between Activities: Help children navigate transitions between activities, ensuring they understand the flow of the day and are prepared for what comes next.
- Transitioning to New Environments: If the child is moving from one age group or class to another, offers support to ensure the transition is smooth and positive.
Qualifications:
- Montessori Teaching Certification (AMI|AMS), complete or in progress (Must be MACTE accredited).
- Minimum 12+ ECE units + 16 units in GE required. Working towards an AA|BA|BS degree in Early Childhood Education, or related field, or equivalent, preferred and desirable for all Montessori guides.
- Must apply for the Early Childhood Associate Teacher (12 units ECE/CD including core courses and 50 days of experience at 3+ hours per day within 2 years) or Teacher Permit (24 units ECE/CD, including core courses, plus 16 General Education (GE) units, and 175 days of experience at 3+ hours per day within 4 years). Support is given to apply for the permit and must apply within the first 90 days of employment.
- Understanding of an environmental rating scale process (Montessori | ECERS), a plus. Full training available.
- Understanding and experience in completing the state of California, DRDP (Desired Results Developmental Profile) will be an added advantage. Full training available.
- CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
- Must have up to date all mandated training, current physical from a U.S. doctor, and vaccines.
- Experience working in a toddler, primary, or an elementary Montessori classroom, 2 years preferred. Will train the right candidate who is taking the training.
- Special qualifications: Special needs background, and mindfulness practice are desirable.
- Physical stamina to work with young children and lift up to 30 pounds (toddlers).
- Patience, compassion, and enthusiasm for working with young children
- Cheerful and friendly demeanor. Kind, empathetic, and mindful characteristics are a must.
- Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues, communicate effectively and supervise personnel when necessary.
- Must be punctual, reliable, responsible, and respectful (This is a must).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong command of English is a must. Fluency in a second language is an added advantage. Must be fluent in both language (Spanish – English or, French – English, or Mandarin – English).
- Must be willing to invest time and energy to improve the lives of young children.
How to Apply
If you have a can-do attitude, are excited to join a team of passionate educators, we invite you to apply for this role today!
Email your resume to jobs.scientia.education@gmail.com
cc to: sophiamorenof84@gmail.com in pdf format.
Location: San Diego, California
Pay: Highly competitive depending on qualification & experience
Expected hours: 40 per week, M – F
Benefits:
Employee discount (employee’s children)
Extensive employee training throughout the school year (fully paid, including staff wages)
Continuous Professional development and coaching by dedicated Montessori coaches.
Health insurance
Paid time off (sick, vacation, holiday)
Tuition reimbursement (after one year)
Limited visa sponsorship to the right candidate.