Montessori Lead Teacher

Canvas & Climb; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive, mission-driven environment

Potential for future leadership opportunities

Job summary

Canvas & Climb in Los Angeles is seeking a passionate Montessori Lead Teacher to lead small groups of children aged 3–6 in their Montessori program. This part-time role involves guiding children through a 3-hour work cycle, observing and adapting to their individual needs, and maintaining a supportive learning environment.

With your Montessori certification and experience, you'll help shape the program from the ground up, ensuring an engaging atmosphere that promotes independence and a love of learning. Growth opportunities within the company are available for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• 2+ years as a Lead Teacher in a Montessori 3–6 setting.
• Ability to foster a calm and engaging environment.
• Strong observational skills and adaptability.

Responsibilities

• Lead a 3-hour Montessori work cycle for small groups.
• Maintain and organize the classroom environment.
• Tailor guidance to individual children's needs.

Skills

Montessori 3–6 certification

Experience in Montessori classroom

Child development knowledge

Communication skills

Education

Montessori certificate from an accredited program

Job description

About Us

We are a brand-new enrichment center opening in West Los Angeles, dedicated to supporting the growth and development of young children through thoughtfully designed, high-quality programming. Our offerings include recurring Montessori pods for children ages 3–6, as well as separate enrichment classes such as art and rock climbing.

We believe that children are inherently capable and thrive when given the right environment, guidance, and opportunities. Our mission is to foster each child’s innate curiosity, unique talents, passions, and limitless potential. Rooted in the philosophy of Maria Montessori, we aim to create a space where independence, confidence, and a genuine love of learning can flourish.

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Montessori Lead Teacher to guide children ages 3–6 within our recurring Montessori pod program. This role centers on leading a consistent 3‑hour Montessori work cycle, offered throughout the week, for small groups of 5–10 children.

As a Lead Teacher, you will create and maintain a calm, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment where each child is seen, respected, and supported as an individual. You will thoughtfully observe students, adapt your approach to meet their needs, and guide them through meaningful, self‑directed work.

This position also involves helping to establish the foundation of our Montessori program. The Lead Teacher will develop a clear, codified outline of the work cycle to serve as a template for the enrichment center, ensuring consistency and authenticity across pods. You will be responsible for rotating and maintaining materials on a weekly and monthly basis, while upholding the integrity of Montessori principles in a non‑traditional enrichment setting.

This is a part‑time role with the opportunity to grow into a full‑time position for the right candidate who is excited to grow with the company and contribute to future expansion and franchising.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain a 3‑hour uninterrupted Montessori work cycle
• Prepare and maintain a thoughtfully organized, engaging classroom environment
• Observe each child closely and tailor guidance to meet their individual developmental needs
• Rotate and refresh classroom materials on a weekly and monthly basis
• Develop and document a codified work cycle outline/template for the program
• Uphold authentic Montessori principles in daily practice
• Foster a calm, respectful, and inclusive classroom culture
• Communicate effectively and professionally with parents
• Adapt teaching approaches based on observation and ongoing assessment
• Take initiative in improving classroom systems, flow, and overall student experience

Qualifications

• Montessori 3–6 (Primary) certification from an accredited program
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Lead Teacher in a Montessori 3–6 classroom
• Strong understanding of Montessori philosophy and child development
• Demonstrated ability to observe and respond to individual learning styles and needs
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, especially with parents
• Organized, self‑directed, and proactive

Preferred Qualities

• Warm, patient, and highly observant
• Deep respect for each child as an individual
• Strong sense of ownership of the classroom environment
• Commitment to authentic Montessori practice
• Interest in growing with a new, evolving organization

What We Offer

• Opportunity to help build and shape a new Montessori program from the ground up
• Supportive, mission‑driven environment
• Small group sizes (5–10 children per pod)
• Potential for growth into a full‑time role and future leadership opportunities as the company expands