Upper Elementary Guide

Essential Functions & Accountabilities:

• Understand and promote the Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS vision, mission, and goals to students, parents, and community

• Develop and administer an authentic Montessori Upper Elementary curriculum and assessments consistent with the Montessori Method and aligned with the 

Montessori Learning Standards and District of Columbia  Common Core State Standards

• Work with a Co-Guide to present Montessori lessons, plan ‘going out’ expeditions for students
• Attend Montessori Model UN with Upper Elementary students and plan 6th grade end of school year Study Trip
• Conduct ongoing observations assessments of student learning, and modify instructional methods to fit individual student needs, including for students with special needs and/or English Language Learners
• Lead individual and small group instruction as needed
• Work with the community of students, teachers, parents and administrators, in articulating and maintaining the integrity and scope of the Montessori Method
• Develop and prepare the Montessori classroom environment, materials, and lessons to meet the students’ needs and interests.
• Present consistent individual and group lessons to the students and supporting each child’s socio-emotional and academic progress and learning success
• Record observations of student work on a daily basis to check for student understanding, progress and achievement. 
• Manage and document student attendance on a daily basis.
• Participate in ongoing professional development , recommended conferences, training programs, SSMA in-service and/or PD workshops, courses, and other areas of professional growth.
• • Participate in SSMA Back to School, Open House, Montessori Saturday Academy, Curriculum Day, Peace Assemblies  and other special/extracurricular activities and programs as requested.
  • Administer standardized tests in accordance with District of Columbia and Public Charter School Board assessment requirements
  • Instruct students in the principles of Grace and Courtesy
  • Develop and sustain positive relationships with parents, children and families
  • Attend all school staff meetings, and other meetings as required
  • Check/examine shared areas such as bathroom, playground, for health and safety hazards
  
  

  Required Competencies & Qualifications:

  • Maintain confidentiality
  • A passion for growing independent, confident and intellectually curious children;
  • Ability to provide services to all children and families with respect and dignity
  • Ability to understand and willingness to work with a range of learning styles is required
  • Excellent listening and communications skills
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills
  • A love of children and a  sense of humor

    Education and Experience:

    • Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Education, Elementary Education or a related discipline is required; Master’s Degree is preferred.
    • AMS,AMI, diploma  in Elementary  Education or from  from a MACTE recognized or affiliate - Teacher Education Program required.
    • Advanced degrees, or  multiple credentials (e.g., Special Education, Reading, ESOL, Music, Art, etc.)
    • Praxis II certification and passing scores preferred
    • Understanding of Montessori Learning standards and alignment to Common Core Standards
    • Prior experience in a Montessori) classroom environment preferred.
    • Prior experience working in a diverse student and adult community
    • Spanish, Amharic, or French language fluency is a plus
    • Must be eligible to work in the United States
    • A love of children and a sense of humor