Are you a collaborative, creative Montessorian who is passionate about working with upper elementary students (grades 4-6)? Do you find purpose in guiding students to be their best selves socially, emotionally, and academically in a collaborative and progressive educational community? Cedar River Montessori announces an opening for an experienced teacher in Upper Elementary for the 2024-25 academic year, working with a strong co-teacher who will be completing his practicum year. Our school community values the rich cultures, traditions, and ethnicities our families come from, and we are looking for diverse applicants who represent these backgrounds. Members of BIPOC and LGBTQ communities are encouraged to apply.
About us:
Located on 12 acres of forested wetland and pasture, Cedar River Montessori is an American Montessori Society accredited, independent, non-profit school for students ages 3 through 14 in Renton, WA. Cedar River Montessori students follow their natural interests as they explore their world, discovering the interconnectedness of personal responsibility, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Students learn how to work independently and collaboratively, experiencing a transformative education as they grow into the next generation of engaged, global thinkers who compassionately challenge the status quo. Founded in 1981, we strive to be a diverse and inclusive community.
This job is for you if you:
Are inspired by our mission and values
Embrace outdoor experiences in all kinds of conditions
Love children and supporting their development
Have a commitment to high quality education and whole child learning
Welcome opportunities to stretch yourself by learning and implementing new techniques and strategies to support children with learning differences or behavioral challenges
Are a skilled classroom manager, inspiring children to be their best selves and patiently coaching them through solution-finding processes
Delight in the details of maintaining a classroom space (both physical space and virtual space) for children to thrive
Are a highly relational and effective communicator
Are able to multi-task and manage a variety of responsibilities
Have a positive attitude and are able to roll with a dynamic and creative organization
Care deeply about equity, diversity, and social and environmental justice
Enjoy working in a progressive, relational, collaborative, and nature-loving team of dedicated and talented individuals
Principal Responsibilities:
Create and maintain a healthy, safe, and positive environment for children
Support social-emotional learning and solution-finding opportunities using the Positive Discipline framework
Take initiative and communicate with Elementary team about project and curriculum ideas
Observe and assess individual student growth and progress, and follow up with teaching team and administration when there are areas of concern
Communicate with educational leadership, staff, and families about the child’s development and daily experiences
Collaborate with Cedar River Montessori staff to foster a sense of community and belonging
Implement daily practices and routines within the classroom and throughout the campus
Observe, document, and facilitate children’s progress in the areas of their social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive skills
Organize classroom materials and clean, disinfect, and sanitize the workspace to facilitating the learning process for each child
Facilitate online learning experiences as needed and support the students, families, and school community through excellent communication
Model safe and responsible behavior during outdoor activities, and motivate students to participate in all types of weather
Help guide students through self-directed activities, allowing each student to develop at their own pace
Foster a nurturing and stimulating non-competitive environment
Education/Experience:
Bachelor’s Degree and AMI, AMS, or MACTE certification (9-12/6-12 or Elementary I/II)
Experience working with elementary-aged children and families in a group setting
CPR, First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens certified or be willing to obtain
Positive Discipline training, or willing to take
Anti-biased/Anti-racist training, or willing to take
Desired Skills and Abilities:
AMI, AMS, or MACTE certification for 9-12/Elementary II
Strong communication skills with children, parents, and colleagues
Strong decision-making skills to respond to risk management, emergencies, or difficult situations
Ability and desire to support children with learning differences
Ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally
Familiarity with Transparent Classroom
Desired Behavioral Traits and Attitudes:
Leader, team player, fun, outgoing, passionate, organized, flexible, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, and self-motivated. Aligned with Cedar River Montessori’s mission and values and environmentally and socially conscientious.
Benefits and Compensation:
10 month salary $58,000-68,000 depending on certification and experience. Excellent medical, dental, and vision benefits. Matching retirement, paid professional development, and paid time off. This is a full-time commitment to working for the 10-month school year, with option to work in the summer camp program.