Primary Lead Teacher

Salem Montessori School; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision, and dental insurance

401(k) plan

Tuition discounts for staff families

Professional development days

Paid Montessori certification program

Job summary

Salem Montessori School in Salem, Virginia, is looking for a passionate Lead Primary Teacher to guide young learners aged 3-6. In this role, you will create a rich Montessori-inspired classroom, support each child's growth, and build partnerships with families.

The ideal candidate has a love for early childhood education, relevant teaching experience, and a Montessori credential (or willingness to pursue). We offer competitive compensation, medical benefits, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Experience as a lead teacher in a primary or early childhood classroom (ages 3–6 preferred).
• Genuine love for young children and a passion for nurturing early development.
• AMI, AMS, MACTE-accredited Montessori credential — willingness to pursue certification within two years.

Responsibilities

• Lead a Primary classroom (ages 3–6) using Montessori principles.
• Prepare and maintain an organized, inviting classroom environment.
• Observe and track individual student progress.
• Build warm relationships with families through regular updates.
• Collaborate with assistant teachers and leadership on school initiatives.
• Maintain CPR/First Aid certification.

Skills

Classroom management

Strong communication

Collaboration

Patience

Enthusiasm

Education

Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Montessori credential

Job description

Salem Montessori School is a thriving, established institution serving infants through middle school in Salem, Virginia. We are a community built on curiosity, independence, and a deep respect for each child's natural development. Our Primary program nurtures children ages 3–6 in a carefully prepared environment grounded in the Montessori philosophy.

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Primary Teacher to guide our youngest learners through the foundational years of their education. In this role, you will design and maintain a rich Montessori‑inspired classroom environment, foster each child's intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth, and serve as a trusted partner to families throughout their child's early education journey.

What You'll Do

• Lead a Primary classroom (ages 3–6) using Montessori principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Prepare and maintain an organized, inviting classroom environment that encourages independence and exploration.
• Observe and track individual student progress, adapting lessons to meet each child's needs.
• Build warm, communicative relationships with families through conferences and regular updates.
• Collaborate with assistant teachers and school leadership to support whole‑school initiatives.
• Uphold school values of grace, courtesy, and community in all interactions.
• Maintain CPR/First Aid certification and adhere to all safety standards.

What We're Looking For

• Genuine love for young children and a passion for nurturing early development.
• Experience as a lead teacher in a primary or early childhood classroom (ages 3–6 preferred).
• Associate's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (bachelor's preferred).
• AMI, AMS, MACTE‑accredited Montessori Primary credential — or a strong willingness to pursue certification within two years.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and classroom management skills.
• Patience, enthusiasm, and the ability to model grace and courtesy with children and colleagues alike.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Tuition discounts for staff families
• PTO days and professional development days
• Paid Montessori certification program — we invest in your growth.
• Ongoing professional development funding and opportunities
• A supportive, collaborative team that genuinely cares about your success.

How to Apply

Please submit an application including the following items:

• Current resume.
• A letter describing your interest in the Montessori method and early childhood education.
• Three professional references (name, relationship, email, and phone number).