Lead Infant Teacher at Old Town, Chicago, Illinois

Guidepost Montessori; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Lead Infant Teacher to join their vibrant Montessori community. This role offers the chance to nurture infants in a thoughtfully prepared environment that encourages independence and exploration. As a Lead Guide, you will support a mixed-age class, cultivating personal connections and fostering each child's unique potential. With opportunities for professional development and a supportive network, this position is perfect for those who love working with young children and aspire to make a meaningful impact in their lives. Join us in transforming education for the better!

Benefits

Sponsored Montessori diploma

75% tuition discount for two children

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience with children ages 0-3 in a group setting.
• Interest in pursuing Montessori training or already certified.

Responsibilities

• Observe and meet each child's physical and emotional needs.
• Prepare an environment that fosters trust and exploration.
• Communicate respectfully with parents for optimal care.

Skills

Montessori education principles

Child development knowledge

Communication skills

Observation skills

Ability to foster independence

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Early Childhood Education credits

Montessori diploma

Job description

We are now hiring a Lead Infant Teacher for our lovely Guidepost Montessori school Old Town, Chicago, Illinois!

Get the opportunity to nurture infants with an environment designed for their growth, exploration, and independence!

Your Role

We're looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated Lead Guide (Teacher) to support a mixed-age class of infant age children in a Montessori environment.

In a Montessori community, guides (teachers) carefully prepare an environment that fosters independence and captivates a child’s interest. Guides provide personalized support to each child. They work with children individually and in small groups, demonstrating how to use the materials and perform activities with them, and giving precise language to understand their experiences.

Because of the carefully prepared environment and individualized support, children in a Montessori class have tremendous liberty to explore the environment and work on materials of their choice for as long as they want. Most importantly, the support and materials help every child develop skills, confidence, and a firm conviction that they are capable.

We’re looking for a Lead Guide who will bring their best in order to support every child in reaching their highest potential!

Guidepost Infant Lead Guides:

• Observe each child closely to understand and meet their physical, intellectual, and emotional needs
• Follow the natural rhythms of sleeping, eating, and toileting for each child
• Prepare a beautiful, orderly environment that fosters trust, exploration, deep learning, and independence
• Cultivate independence and self-confidence by helping children ‘do it all by themselves’
• Form personal connections with each child and cultivate a community of respect
• Communicate and collaborate respectfully with parents to provide the best possible care for every child

An ideal candidate has:

• Are interested in pursuing certified Montessori training through our Prepared Montessorian Institute (fully-sponsored) or have previously obtained a Montessori diploma
• Experience working with children ages 0-3 in a group setting such as daycare, aftercare, or nursery
• Familiarity with child-led philosophies such as Reggio Emilia or Montessori and/or open to learning more!
• Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development credits
• Earned a Bachelor’s Degree (any subject)

What we offer:

• The opportunity to contribute to a high-quality Montessori program that serves the individual needs of each child
• Sponsored Montessori diploma and ongoing professional development through the Prepared Montessorian Institute
• 75% tuition discount for two children at any school in our network (we serve children from 3-months-old through 12th grade)
• A network of supportive peers and mentors who appreciate your valuable contributions and regularly share best practices
• Abundant career growth and promotion opportunities
• A competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and paid holidays

About Us

Guidepost Montessori is a growing network of 120+ Montessori schools, serving children ages 0-12 in our Nido, Toddler, Children’s House, and Elementary programs. And with schools from Shanghai to Paris and California to New York, as well as virtual school and homeschooling support, there are countless opportunities for passionate educators to support children on their individual path to success.

At Guidepost, we believe children are capable and we design an education for independence. We’re on a mission to radically transform education based on this belief—for children, parents, and educators!

If you love children and have been looking for the right opportunity to grow, join our school community by applying below!