Lead Educator

Sonnet Montessori; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing Professional Development &

401(k) Plan

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays

Employee Childcare Discount

Job summary

Sonnet Montessori in Minnesota is seeking a Lead Educator to establish and maintain a safe, high-quality Montessori learning environment, observe children’s growth, and prepare materials and curriculum.

You’ll communicate with families, lead conferences, collaborate with staff, ensure licensing compliance, and participate in ongoing professional development within a warm, growth-oriented workplace.

Qualifications

• Must meet Minnesota DHS qualifications for a Lead Educator in a licensed child care center.
• Montessori training is preferred; candidates not yet certified will be supported after hire within a defined timeframe.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building with children, families, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a safe, high-quality Montessori learning environment.
• Observe and document children’s growth and development, maintaining student records and portfolios.
• Prepare, present, and maintain Montessori materials and curriculum.
• Guide children with respect, fostering independence and curiosity.
• Communicate daily with parents through the parent communication app and conferences.
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with staff.
• Ensure compliance with state licensing standards and school policies.
• Lead parent-teacher conferences and provide updates on student progress.
• Participate in staff meetings, events, and professional development.

Skills

Montessori

Classroom management

Communication

Relationship-building

Education

DHS Lead Educator qualifications

Job description

Description

At Sonnet Montessori, we’re on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you’re energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you’ll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.

What You’ll Do

• Establish and maintain a safe, high-quality Montessori learning environment.


• Observe and document children’s growth and development, maintaining student records and portfolios.


• Prepare, present, and maintain Montessori materials and curriculum.


• Guide children with respect, fostering independence and supporting their natural curiosity.


• Communicate daily with parents through the parent communication app and regular conferences/newsletters.


• Build strong, collaborative relationships with assistant guides and staff.


• Ensure compliance with state licensing standards and school policies.


• Lead parent-teacher conferences and provide consistent updates on student progress.


• Participate in staff meetings, school events, and professional development opportunities.


• Model professionalism and positivity in all interactions with children, families, and colleagues.

What You’ll Need

• Must meet Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) qualifications for a Lead Educator in a licensed child care center.


• Experience working with young children in a Montessori or early childhood setting.


• Strong classroom management and organizational skills.


• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., actively supervise children indoors/outdoors, and meet physical demands of the role.


• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).


• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with children, families, and staff.


• Commitment to ongoing professional development and Montessori philosophy.


• Montessori training is preferred. Successful candidates not yet certified are encouraged to apply and will be supported in completing training after hire within an agreed-upon timeframe. Montessori certification is a valuable professional credential and transferable skill that can be completed in as little as 9-12 months. Ask us for more information and to learn about employer-sponsored training options.

What We Offer

• Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities


• 401(k) Plan


• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance


• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays


• Employee Childcare Discount

The starting pay range for this position is $19 to $22 hourly and is applicable for candidates who will be working in the following location[s] Minnesota. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations. In addition to geographic location, Sonnet Montessori considers education, experience, internal equity, market demands, and other qualifying criteria to determine starting wages.

In addition to compensation benefits, Sonnet Montessori offers a variety of health and welfare benefits, based on eligibility, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and career development.