Job Description

Position Summary:

We are seeking an AMS, AMI or MACTE certified and experienced Lead Guide(s) at the Lower Elementary level to join our dynamic and expanding staff for the 2024-2025 school year. If you possess a sincere commitment to building and directing a quality Montessori environment, offering support and guidance to parents, and collaborating with experienced colleagues, please consider joining the Shining Stars Montessori school community. The right candidate should possess maturity, dedication, high integrity, good judgment, ability to self-reflect as a member of the teaching staff, and the courage to grow as a teacher leader. We seek individuals with a clear understanding of Montessori ideals, deep knowledge of the development of children, classroom management and communication skills that nurture self-discipline, order, and confidence in young students. We can offer you a rewarding experience in a growing and diverse Montessori school in the nation's capital.

Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS is American Montessori Society and Middle States Association/Council on Elementary and Secondary School accredited. This is a full-time and benefited position. Hours are typically Monday - Friday from 7:45 am - 4:30 pm, with some weekend and evening activities. Some Guides also participate in the SSMA Montessori Afterschool Program (MAP) which is also stipended. 

SSMA is located in northeast Washington, DC (Brookland, Ward 5) near the Catholic University campus.

Essential Functions & Accountabilities:

• Understand and promote the Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS vision, mission, and goals to students, parents, and community
• Develop and administer an authentic Montessori Lower Elementary curriculum and assessments consistent with the Montessori Method and aligned with the Montessori Learning Standards and District of Columbia Common Core State Standards
• Work with a Co-Guide or Assistant to present Montessori lessons, plan ‘going out' expeditions for students
• Conduct ongoing observations assessments of student learning, and modify instructional methods to fit individual student needs, including for students with special needs and/or English Language Learners
• Lead individual and small group instruction lessons as needed
• Work with the community of students, teachers, parents and administrators, in articulating and maintaining the integrity and scope of the Montessori Method
• Develop and prepare the Montessori classroom environment, materials, and lessons to meet the students' needs and interests.
• Present consistent individual and group lessons to the students and supporting each child's socio-emotional and academic progress and learning success
• Record observations of student work on a daily basis to check for student understanding, progress and achievement.
• Manage and document student attendance on a daily basis.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, recommended conferences, training programs, SSMA in-service and/or PD workshops, courses, and other areas of professional growth.
• Participate in SSMA Back to School, Open House, Montessori Saturday Academy, Curriculum Day, Peace Assemblies and other special/extracurricular activities and programs as requested.
• Administer standardized tests in accordance with District of Columbia and Public Charter School Board assessment requirements
• Instruct students in the principles of Grace and Courtesy
• Develop and sustain positive relationships with parents, children and families
• Attend all school staff meetings, and other meetings as required
• Check/examine shared areas such as bathroom, playground, for health and safety hazards

Required Competencies & Qualifications:

• A passion for growing independent, confident and intellectually curious children;
• Ability to provide services to all children and families with respect and dignity
• Ability to understand and willingness to work with students a range of learning styles is required
• Excellent listening and communications skills
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• A love of children and a sense of humor

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Education, Elementary Education or a related discipline is required; Master's Degree preferred.
• AMS , AMI , IMC or other MACTE approved Teacher Education Program certification/Diploma in Elementary

Education and prior experience in a Montessori) classroom environment is required

• Teacher license or certification (or eligibility to receive) in K-8 or K-12 education is highly desirable but not required as a condition of hire.
• Prior experience working in a diverse student and adult community
• Praxis I & II certification and passing scores preferred
• Bilinguality a plus
• Advanced degrees, or multiple credentials (e.g., Special Education, Reading, ESOL, , PE, Music, Art, etc.) preferred 
• Must be eligible to work in the United States
• A love of children and a sense of humor

Compensation:

Salary for this position is competitive. In addition, a comprehensive benefits package is offered.

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