Primary Montessori Guide

 Children’s House Lead Guide

About Mater Amoris Montessori School

Mater Amoris Montessori School is a non-profit corporation governed by the Board of Trustees of the Montessori Society of Ashton, Inc.  Mater Amoris adheres to the guidelines established by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) and dedicates itself to the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori in the belief that her teachings provide a scientifically-based system that helps the child not only during early development, but throughout life.  Mater Amoris Montessori School is dedicated to the development of each child according to his/her specific needs and interests. 

Lead Guide Position Description

The Children’s House Lead Guide at Mater Amoris Montessori School guides and helps direct students’ activities academically, emotionally, socially, and physically in a prepared Montessori environment that challenges each child to reach his/her fullest potential across developmental areas, in accordance with Montessori philosophy and procedures. The Lead Guide is responsible for presenting the Montessori curriculum to students, participating in parent education and conferences, record-keeping, and assessment. The Lead Guide is also responsible for maintaining the operation of the classroom in accordance with the Office of Childcare regulations and Department of Health guidelines and requirements. The Lead Guide must complete all trainings and maintain all certifications required by local or state regulations or school administration. The Lead Guide performs his/her services under the direction and supervision of the Head of School.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Curriculum, Materials, and Classroom Management

• Prepare and maintain the Montessori environment to meet the students’ needs and interests.
• Make materials as needed to ensure that those materials required by AMI standards are on the shelves.
• Present individual and group lessons to students and support each child’s progress and success.
• Individualize lessons and student work to meet the varying abilities of students, including accommodating students’ special educational needs.

Parent Education, Meetings, Communication, and Conferences

• Participate in school functions, including but not limited to open houses, orientation meetings, parent education, and school-wide activities.
•  Attend and actively participate in weekly staff meetings, team meetings, and level meetings.
• Prepare documents and reports necessary to facilitate parent-guide conferences or other meetings requested by parents or school administration.
• Maintain consistent communication with parents about their child’s social, emotional, and academic progress through email updates and pictures; no less than twice monthly. 

Record-Keeping and Assessment

• Maintain student records, reports, and evaluations.
• Track lessons and student progress in the electronic system designated by school administration.
• Prepare student progress reports and report cards in a timely manner.

Supervision of Classroom Assistant

• Collaborate daily with the classroom assistant – provide direction for classroom maintenance and management and communicate regarding students’ academic and social progress.
• Provide guidance on Montessori philosophy, as needed.
• Participate in the assistant’s annual employee review.

Qualifications of a Successful Candidate

• Possess an AMI certification and, at minimum, a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred)
• Have at least 5 years of classroom experience, preferably in a Montessori setting
• Have a firm commitment to upholding the school’s mission
• Demonstrate an ability to work as part of a dynamic and diverse team
• Possess (or express a willingness to get) current CPR and First Aid certification
•  Comply with all continuing education requirements