Primary Guide - Light of Christ Montessori School

Description

At Light of Christ Catholic Montessori School, we believe in nurturing the whole child through the authentic Montessori method in a Catholic setting grounded in respect and curiosity. We aim to have a prepared environment that fosters independence, faithfulness and concentration for children ages 3-6. The primary guide sets the tone for this in the classroom and is the adult responsible for the prepared environment.

Ministerial Character

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin are canonically obedient to the Bishop and assist him in fulfilling his ministry and canonical obligations. Pastors, presidents, and principals serve as school leaders to make Christ's mission present and enduring in the schools. To fulfill Christ's mission, the school leaders employ suitable, chosen collaborators, sharing Christ's mission with them and entrusting them with various responsibilities.

Positions employed in this School help extend the ministry of the school leaders in particular ways as outlined in the job description. The employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the school leaders in the performance of their ministry and, therefore, engages in ministry for the Church.

Requirements

When in a classroom, the Primary Guide leads the classroom community and promotes the well-being of the children and the group. The guide will provide lessons to the children both individually and in small groups or, in a group collective during the school day. The guide is also the primary observer in the classroom of the children and records these findings to document progress and mastery of skills. The guide ensures that the goals of Catholic Montessori education at Light of Christ Catholic Montessori School are achieved.

The Guide is responsible for setting the rhythm of the classroom. This includes an awareness of the classroom’s unique routines and the needs of the children. This person maintains a calm presence and serves as a supportive adult in the room for children and adults to turn to.

Primary Responsibilities

• Supports and upholds the philosophy of Catholic education and the mission of the school
• Acts as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church
• Supports and adheres to the Code of Conduct and policies and procedures of the school and Diocese
• Maintains confidentiality regarding school matters
• Communicates effectively with students, parents, and other professionals
• Observes and assists individual students one on one or in small groups to support learning activities
• Observes students at all times, including lunch, recess, and routine movement
• Performs clerical tasks such as maintaining lesson data and notes, and prepares materials as indicated by the classroom guide
• Meets staff development guidelines as set forth by the Diocese/local administration
• Demonstrates professionalism in conduct, demeanor, and work habits
• Maintains current and accurate records according to school policy
• Collaborates with peers to enhance the work environment and support instructional planning
• Demonstrates a willingness to respond to individual learning needs
• Ability to work well with students, parents, and colleagues in an instructional setting
• Ability to handle multiple tasks
• Possesses proficient technology skills
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Deep knowledge of Montessori pedagogy and experience with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
• Knowledge of the basic teachings of the Catholic Church
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks simultaneously
• Skill in motivating and engaging students in the learning process
• Strong organizational abilities to manage classroom activities, assessments, and administrative tasks.
• Skill in job-appropriate technology including Transparent Classroom for record-keeping and FACTS management for communication and data management
• Skill in critical thinking and planning
• Passion for nurturing children’s curiosity and fostering a love for learning
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of a dynamic educational environment
  
  

Education

Minimum Qualifications

• College degree, preferably in a non-education major
• AMI-Primary diploma or proof of enrollment in an AMI training program is required
• CGS Level 1 Training Certificate is required
  
  

Experience

• Proven experience as a Montessori Primary Guide, demonstrating a deep understanding of Montessori philosophy and methodology
• CGS atrium experience is preferred.
  
  

Certifications And Training

• Valid Texas driver’s license.
• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.
  
  

Physical Requirements For The Position

• The ability to lift up to 40 pounds
• Ability to sit on the floor
• Ability to get up and down from the floor with ease
  
  

Working Conditions

• All employees of the Parish are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church.
• The Parish is an at-will employer.
• All buildings and vehicles owned by the Parish are tobacco free.
• Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.
• Working on weekends, evenings, and some holidays may be required.
• Will be exposed to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech, including Roman Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations.
• Will be required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.