Lead Primary Guide

Position Overview:

Sequoia Montessori School is seeking a dedicated and passionate AMI-trained Primary Guide to join our growing team. We are a small, vibrant school community dedicated to the Montessori philosophy, focused on creating a nurturing environment that supports the holistic development of each child.

If you are passionate about Montessori education, excited about contributing to a growing school, and interested in joining a close-knit team of dedicated educators, we invite you to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver engaging, individualized lessons across all curriculum areas aligned with AMI guidelines, fostering independence, concentration, and curiosity.
• Guide and assess students academically, socially, and emotionally.
• Model grace, courtesy, and positive behavior, facilitating self-regulation and conflict resolution among students.
• Communicate effectively and regularly with parents regarding Montessori principles, child development milestones, and student progress.
• Foster collaborative relationships with parents to ensure consistent support for each child's education.
• Maintain positive and respectful relationships with colleagues, aligning with our school's mission, values, and professional standards.
• Create and maintain a safe, beautiful, organized classroom environment that encourages exploration and precise engagement with materials.
• Train and mentor classroom assistants to support a cooperative, harmonious learning atmosphere.
• Maintain accurate student records, plan lessons effectively, and provide clear communication to families.
• Commit to ongoing professional development and uphold Montessori principles in practice.

About Sequoia Montessori School:

Sequoia Montessori School is a small, thriving educational community deeply committed to authentic Montessori practices. We pride ourselves on providing an environment where children flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Our close-knit team of educators is dedicated to supporting each child's natural development while fostering independence, responsibility, and a lifelong love for learning.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a supportive, collaborative, and passionate team
• Opportunity to contribute to the growth of a developing school
• Ongoing professional growth and learning opportunities
• Join a community deeply committed to authentic Montessori education
• Small classroom of 12 children. Ratio 1:6.
• Working hours 8am till 4pm
• Fall, Spring, Christmas one-week breaks. A month off in the summer.

Salary:

This is a full-time position starting January, 2026. The position is from Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. The salary range is $60,000 - $70,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Interested candidates should email resume and cover letter to Maria Sorokina, Owner and Lead Guide of Sequoia Montessori School, msorokina@gmail.com

Required Qualifications & Attributes:

1. AMI or AMS Montessori Primary Certification
2. At least 2 years of experience working in the primary classroom
3. Strong knowledge and practical application of Positive Discipline strategies to guide children with kindness and firmness.
4. Ability to redirect children’s energy and behavior in a constructive and respectful way, fostering independence and responsibility.
5. Strong leadership and communication skills to connect with the assistant in a positive and collaborative manner.
6. Warm, calm, and professional presence in the classroom, modeling respect and grace for both children and adults.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Child Development

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
Comfort with sitting on the floor and moving easily to interact with children

Key Responsibilities:
• Deliver engaging, individualized lessons across all curriculum areas aligned with AMI guidelines, fostering independence, concentration, and curiosity.
• Guide and assess students academically, socially, and emotionally.
• Model grace, courtesy, and positive behavior, facilitating self-regulation and conflict resolution among students.
• Communicate effectively and regularly with parents regarding Montessori principles, child development milestones, and student progress.
• Foster collaborative relationships with parents to ensure consistent support for each child's education.
• Maintain positive and respectful relationships with colleagues, aligning with our school's mission, values, and professional standards.
• Create and maintain a safe, beautiful, organized classroom environment that encourages exploration and precise engagement with materials.
• Train and mentor classroom assistants to support a cooperative, harmonious learning atmosphere.
• Maintain accurate student records, plan lessons effectively, and provide clear communication to families.
• Commit to ongoing professional development and uphold Montessori principles in practice.

Strong knowledge of Montessori philosophy and Primary curriculum

Effective classroom management using Positive Discipline

Clear and respectful communication with children, parents, and staff

Ability to mentor and guide classroom assistants positively

Strong observation and record-keeping skills

Patience, empathy, and creativity in supporting each child

Organizational skills to maintain a beautiful, orderly environment

Flexibility and enthusiasm for field trips and community activities