Lead Teacher, Infant and Young Toddler Classroom

https://dvms.org/career-opportunities/

Diablo Valley Montessori School is seeking a dedicated, AMS or AMI Credentialed Lead Teacher to join our Infant and Toddler Community (ages 3–18 months).

In this role, you will work in close partnership with our Head Teacher to foster an enriching environment where every child is encouraged to reach their fullest academic, emotional, and social potential. We are looking for a collaborative professional who believes in the "dynamic partnership" between child, parent, and educator. If you are passionate about the Montessori framework and thrive in a collegial, supportive atmosphere, we want to meet you.

Key Responsibilities

• Care of Children: A compassionate, nurturing attitude to support daily student activities inside and outside of the classroom. Maintain a calm, caring attitude and constant observation of the children to respectfully enforce ground rules and classroom behavior guidelines. Use Positive Discipline techniques to aid in the social and emotional development of each child.  
• Environment & Curriculum: Maintain a beautiful, orderly, and developmentally appropriate Montessori environment. Plan and implement lessons that spark curiosity and support individual independence.
• Observation & Record Keeping: Conduct thoughtful observations to guide individualized development. Maintain accurate progress records and provide meaningful insights during parent communications.
• Mentorship & Collaboration: Work hand-in-hand with the Head Teacher to ensure a seamless, respectful classroom culture. Mentor assistant teachers with supportive guidance, encouraging their active participation in observing and supporting child milestones.
• Holistic & Responsive Care: Prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of every child. Provide warm, responsive care that follows the child, cultivating confidence and trust while strictly adhering to licensing and safety standards.
• Professional Communication: Maintain proactive, informed communication with families through verbal daily check-ins (drop-off/pick-up) and digital platforms (Brightwheel, email, and class newsletters).
• Community Engagement: Build respectful relationships with families to bridge the Montessori experience between school and home.

Qualifications

• Education: Minimum 15 “core” ECE units, including Infant/Toddler units.
• Certification: Montessori 0–3 Certification from a MACTE-accredited program (AMS or AMI).
• Experience: Previous experience as a Lead or Head Teacher at the 0–3 level is strongly preferred.
• Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills; a nurturing, patient, and professional "classroom presence."
• Requirements: Current CPR/First Aid certification, required vaccinations, LiveScan fingerprinting, and the physical stamina for floor-level engagement (lifting, bending, and active play).

Compensation

• $28.00 - $34.50/hour
• Generous vacation and paid holidays
• Medical and dental
• Professional development support

Why Join DVMS?

We are looking for a "true believer" in the Montessori method. At DVMS, we offer a community where your expertise is respected, your professional growth is supported, and your passion for educating the "full human potential" is shared by every colleague.