Lead Montessori Primary Teacher
Fishtown Montessori is a caring community situated in a vibrant and accessible neighborhood in Philadelphia offering a loving Montessori education to children ages 15 months through six years old. We will be celebrating ten years of service to our community for the 2026-2027 school year, when we will be adding a third primary classroom.
We currently serve up to 88 children ages 15 months through six years old between both of our neighboring buildings (three toddler classrooms, and two Primary classrooms in all). Starting in the summer of 2026, a third building along with another Primary classroom will be added. We’re seeking a lead primary teacher to guide a new Primary classroom that will be opening in the summer of 2026. The primary teachers work closely with our curriculum director, with one another, and with the toddler team, to implement a program that offers continuity of care throughout the whole school while also giving you the freedom to add offerings that are unique to your personal skill set and your classroom community.
Lead Montessori Teacher Responsibilities
Above all, the lead montessori teacher is expected to model the values of Fishtown Montessori (development, integrity, respect, empathy, communication and teamwork) and the AMS code of ethics while acting as a leader and valuable resource to our learning community.
Classroom Duties
- Montessori Philosophy: Interact with students respectfully, fostering self-esteem and meaningful relationships, and using a calm and deliberate communication style.
- Supervision & Guidance: Observe, guide, and supervise all students using the Montessori method across all areas of study, ensuring safety and well-being at all times.
- Behavior Guidance & Conflict Resolution: Implement positive discipline, model appropriate behavior, and guide students and assistant teachers in resolving disputes.
- Health & Safety Management: Manage and report any incidents, accidents, or illnesses immediately to the Director or Head of School. Maintain a safe and healthy environment, reminding children of hygiene practices.
- Leadership & Role Management: Assume leadership by demonstrating professionalism and managing classroom schedules, assigning fair responsibilities to Assistant Teachers and PM Care Leads.
- Environment Preparation: Plan and prepare the classroom environment based on student observations to enhance engagement.
- Parental Involvement: Facilitate volunteer opportunities for parents. Design and implement the PM Care program in collaboration with the administrative team and PM staff.
Communications, Record Keeping, & Classroom Prep
- Family Communication: Send a weekly newsletter detailing classroom activities, events, and updates, including photos and videos. Maintain ongoing communication with parents and respond to inquiries promptly.
- Documentation: Write progress reports, conduct parent-teacher conferences, and organize notes for required reports. Maintain records and communicate relevant information with team members and administration.
- Event Planning: Plan and communicate celebrations and volunteer opportunities in advance, ensuring smooth coordination with families and staff.
Staff Responsibilities
- Lesson Planning: Work with the Curriculum Director to implement units of study by the specified deadline.
- Staff Collaboration: Be available for consultations with PM Care Leads and attend all staff and parent meetings, community events, and fundraisers.
- Policy Compliance: Adhere to school policies and emergency protocols, maintaining a safe environment for students.
- Resource Management: Maintain classroom supplies and communicate needs for replenishment to the Head of School or administrators.
Qualifications:
- A Montessori Early Childhood Teaching Certificate (3-6) from an AMS affiliated TEP; OR a Montessori Early Childhood Teaching Certificate (3-6) from AMI or MACTE accredited institution along with a A Bachelor's Degree
- At least 3 years of in-class lead teaching experience preferred, practicum students may apply
Compensation:
This compensation package will include all benefits that we offer including paid time off, paid holidays, and health, dental, vision, and short term disability insurance as well as access to 401k retirement plan. Salary is very competitive and informed by the candidate’s experience and education.
Instructions:
Please apply by sending your resume, cover letter, and three professional references to denise@fishtownmontessori.com and director@fishtownmontessori.com
We are an equal opportunity employer. An open and equitable personnel system will be established and maintained. Personnel policies, procedures and practices will be designed to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religious creed, disability, ancestry, national origin, age and sex. We extend our commitment to our employees, vendors, and contracted services to include non- discrimination in regard to pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity as well. Employment opportunities shall be provided for applicants with disabilities and reasonable accommodation(s) shall be made to meet the physical or mental limitations of qualified applicants or employees.