Lead Infant Teacher at Old Town, Chicago, Illinois

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

Job summary

An established player in early childhood education is seeking a Lead Infant Teacher to join their vibrant community. This role involves nurturing infants in a beautifully prepared Montessori environment, focusing on fostering independence and self-confidence. Candidates will have the opportunity to support children's growth through personalized guidance and engaging activities. With a commitment to high-quality education, this organization offers a collaborative atmosphere where educators can thrive and make a significant impact on young lives. If you are passionate about child development and eager to contribute to a transformative educational experience, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

75% tuition discount for two children

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Ideal candidates should have experience with children ages 0-3 and an interest in Montessori training.
• Strong communication and observation skills are essential for supporting children's development.

Responsibilities

• Observe and meet the physical, intellectual, and emotional needs of each child.
• Prepare an orderly environment that fosters trust, exploration, and independence.
• Communicate and collaborate with parents to provide optimal care.

Skills

Montessori principles

Child development knowledge

Communication skills

Observation skills

Ability to foster independence

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Early Childhood Education credits

Montessori diploma

Job description

Lead Infant Teacher at Old Town, Chicago, Illinois

Old Town, Chicago, Illinois

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, working with children individually and in small groups, demonstrating how to use the materials and perform activities, 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!

• 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

The Montessori Prepared Environment

Every classroom at Guidepost comes equipped with the full range of high-quality Montessori materials for the infant/toddler curriculum, as well as a budget for guides to personalize their space. Each classroom is set up according to the Montessori principles of beauty and order and is designed to enable every child to explore, learn, and confidently achieve their independence.

• Abundant open space to move and explore
• Child-sized furniture and objects to facilitate independence
• Curriculum for independence in: dressing themselves, feeding themselves, toilet learning, etc.
• Scientifically designed learning materials to develop fine and gross motor skills and so much more
• Cozy rugs, real plants, and plenty of natural light
• Breakable objects made from natural materials like wood and metal rather than plastic
• Objects to climb, crawl over, and explore instead of baby-holding devices like walkers and highchairs

If you’re passionate about giving children the tools they need to succeed, eager to partner with parents on their child’s journey, and longing to join a collaborative community of peers, then the team at Guidepost Montessori would love to hear from you!

An ideal candidate has:

• Interest 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
• 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
• 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!

Our mission? Children who fully experience and joyfully achieve their own development; children who can reach their highest potential and flourish—in school and in life!

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