Lower Elementary Lead Teacher

Position Title: Lower Elementary Lead Teacher

Department: Faculty

Reporting to: Assistant Head of School 

FLSA Status: Exempt

Full time, 10 months

With Dr. Maria Montessori’s research-based philosophy and curriculum as our foundation, we provide infants to adolescents an authentic, individualized learning experience that cultivates an unparalleled depth of knowledge. The Lower Elementary Lead Teacher has the unique opportunity to work with an exceptional team of professionals to elevate this well-established, highly loved and respected school to heights that ensure both its longevity and continued wide-spread impact. Gladwyne Montessori is the education of the future: here, now.

Position Summary: 

The Lower Elementary Lead Teacher plays an important role by providing an extraordinary and comprehensive Montessori experience to the children and their families during their first three years of the elementary program at Gladwyne Montessori. 

Responsibilities: 

• Skillfully delivers the Montessori Elementary I curriculum as defined by American Montessori Society;
• Regularly completes student observations and online record keeping for each child;
• Sets the tone for the peaceful, prepared environment that is conducive to high-level, developmentally appropriate learning that supports the executive function skills of each child;
• Conducts parent meetings and writes meaningful conference reports and report cards as determined by the schedule set by the Assistant Head of School;
• Serves as part of the Retention Team by actively engaging in conversations with current parents to discuss their plans for the following school year while articulating the value of a full Gladwyne Montessori School experience for their children;
• Works with other members of the Elementary Department and Senior Leadership to ensure continuity of curriculum and communication;
• Guides children through peaceful, effective positive behavior support and follows the Positive Behavior Support Policy when students need additional support;
• Plans appropriate field trips for Lower Elementary children in partnership with Lower Elementary colleagues;
• Assists in duties beyond the classroom as requested by the Head of School.

Core Competencies:

• Demonstrates cultural competency and desire to continually learn and grow in the area of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging;
• Must be able to relate joyfully to children ages 6 - 12 years old;
• Must be reliable, flexible, positive, patient, warm, and enthusiastic about working as part of a team of adults and engaging with families;
• Strong organizational, attention to detail, and creative thinking skills;
• An eagerness and ability to interact with parents, students, faculty and staff, administrators, trustees, alumni, and other friends of the school;
• Ability to take initiative and problem solve independently when needed;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Proficiency in Google Suite;
• A willingness to work outside of “normal” business hours is essential, as peak periods and special events necessitate some evening and weekend hours.

Qualifications:

• AMS 6 - 9 Certification preferred;
• Must have a minimum of 3 years of experience working with children in a Montessori environment and at least one of those years working as a Montessori classroom lead teacher;
• Must have Bachelor’s degree or higher in Education or related discipline;
• Must have knowledge of minimum standards, health and safety practices, social and emotional development, and classroom management;
• Must pass all required clearances (PA Child Abuse, Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History, Federal Criminal History Background Check);
• Must be able to sit comfortably on the floor with children and bend, squat, and kneel with ease;
• Ability to navigate stairs;
• Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds.

Interested candidates should send their resume, cover letter, and 3 professional references to Hadley Ruggles, Head of School.

Gladwyne Montessori School is an equal opportunity at-will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.