Early Childhood Guide

Lamplighter Montessori School | Cordova, TN, United States

Posted Date 5/22/2025
Description

Who We Are:
At Lamplighter Montessori School, we believe in cultivating joyful learning and meaningful work for children and adults alike. Rooted in Montessori philosophy, our Early Childhood program empowers children to become independent thinkers, compassionate community members, and confident explorers of the world around them. Our classrooms are filled with wonder, warmth, and the quiet hum of purposeful activity.

Who You Are:
You are a nurturing educator with a deep respect for the child and a commitment to lifelong learning. You understand that tiny hands are capable of great things — from pouring water with precision to asking profound questions about the world. You’re ready to guide, observe, and inspire — all while maintaining a calm, beautifully prepared environment where each child thrives.

What You’ll Do:
Create a peaceful, child-centered classroom that reflects the Montessori philosophy and supports social, physical, and intellectual development
Present developmentally appropriate lessons that encourage independence, exploration, and concentration
Tailor your guidance to meet the individual needs of each child — whether supporting normalization, fostering curiosity, or encouraging collaboration
Maintain a clean, safe, and engaging learning space that allows for uninterrupted work cycles
Communicate positively with parents and staff, sharing updates, observations, and resources that support each child’s learning journey
Maintain accurate records of academic progress, observations, incident reports, medication logs, and other required documentation
Coordinate and lead parent/teacher conferences, sharing developmental insights and meaningful feedback
Contribute to school newsletters and parent communications with thoughtful stories that capture the classroom experience
Plan daily lessons and track progress during on-site planning periods
Participate in staff meetings, community events, and ongoing professional development
Complete 30 hours of continuing education each year to remain in alignment with best practices and regulatory requirements

What You Bring:
A heart full of patience, joy, and respect for young children
A solid understanding of early childhood development and learning
Familiarity with Montessori principles and materials (or a strong desire to learn!)
Excellent communication, problem-solving, and time-management skills
A collaborative spirit with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
Commitment to positive discipline, classroom safety, and purposeful instruction
CPR, First Aid, and universal precautions certification (or willingness to obtain)
A commitment to equity, inclusion, and the celebration of diverse perspectives

Education & Experience:
College degree required (Associate's degree considered with relevant experience)
Montessori certification strongly desired (or willingness to pursue certification)
Experience in Montessori or early childhood classroom environments
Comfortable using technology and digital tools for communication and record keeping

What We Offer:
Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
75% tuition discount for faculty children
Optional summer camp employment with free tuition for faculty children
Employee-paid dental, retirement, medical, and flex benefit plans (pre-tax options available)
10 personal days
30 paid days for school breaks and holidays

Physical Requirements:
Prolonged periods of active movement and kneeling with young children
Ability to lift up to 45 lbs.

A Community of Belonging:
Lamplighter is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a school committed to diversity, inclusion, and the dignity of every voice. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.

Interested candidates, please submit your resume and cover letter to Christy Swatzell at cswatzell@lamplighterschool.org.

 

Montessori Credential Level
Early Childhood (2½ - 6)
Education Required
Bachelor's Degree
Job Type
Classroom Teacher/Staff
Position Type
Full-Time (academic year)
Phone(901) 751-2000

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