Primary Guide

Guidedstudies; Gurnee (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Three weeks of paid vacation

Opportunities for additional summer compensation

Job summary

Guidedstudies is seeking a Primary Montessori Guide for the 2026–27 school year in Gurnee, Illinois. The chosen candidate will lead a well-established classroom of children aged 3–6 within a supportive Montessori environment. This role emphasizes fostering independence while maintaining a calm atmosphere.

The ideal candidate holds a Montessori Primary credential and is committed to long-term engagement in the school community. Benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance, and three weeks of paid vacation during the school year.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a Primary (3–6) environment.
• Ability to foster independence in children.
• Commitment to long-term engagement within a school community.

Responsibilities

• Lead a mixed-age classroom of children aged 3–6.
• Create a calm and purposeful classroom environment.
• Work in partnership with assistants, colleagues, and families.

Skills

Classroom leadership

Organizational skills

Collaboration

Respectful presence

Education

Montessori Primary credential (AMI, AMS, or MACTE-accredited)

Job description

Overview

Country Meadows Montessori School is seeking a warm, grounded, and experienced Primary Montessori Guide to lead a well‑established 3–6 classroom for the 2026–27 school year. This is an opportunity to join a deeply rooted Montessori community where the Primary program is central to the life of the school, and where children are supported through a full continuum from Toddler through Elementary.

About the Role

The Primary Guide will lead a mixed‑age classroom of children aged 3–6 within a thoughtfully prepared and well‑supported environment. This role calls for a Guide who can balance structure and flexibility, foster independence, and create a calm, purposeful classroom where each child is seen and supported in their development. The Guide will work in close partnership with assistants, colleagues, and families, contributing to a collaborative and respectful school culture.

About the School

• Long-tenured faculty and staff
• Stable, experienced leadership
• Strong parent partnerships
• A commitment to authentic Montessori practice

Many children begin in the Toddler program and continue through the Elementary years, creating a cohesive and connected community.

Candidate Profile

• Hold a Montessori Primary credential (AMI, AMS, or MACTE‑accredited)
• Have experience working in a Primary (3–6) environment
• Demonstrate strong classroom leadership and organizational skills
• Bring a calm, respectful presence and a deep understanding of the young child
• Value collaboration with colleagues and partnership with families
• Be committed to long‑term engagement within a school community

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary is based on Montessori training and experience
• 21-payroll cycle during the academic year
• Opportunities for additional compensation through the summer program
• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Three weeks of paid vacation during the school year

Special Qualifications

Montessori certified through accredited Montessori training center.