Lead Teacher

We're now hiring Lead Teachers for our lovely Guidepost Montessori School in San Rafael!

Join us in empowering infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children to develop independence, self-confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Offering a monthly $200 commute stipend for crossing bridge

Salary Range: $42,000–$59,000

Your Role

We're looking for enthusiastic, dedicated Lead Guides (Teachers) to support mixed-age classrooms across our Infant, Toddler, and Children's House (Preschool) programs within a Montessori environment.

In a Montessori classroom, guides thoughtfully prepare an environment that nurtures independence and captures each child's natural curiosity. You'll provide individualized and small-group lessons, model the use of hands-on materials, and offer precise language to help children make sense of their experiences at every developmental stage.

Through a carefully prepared environment and personalized support, children are given the freedom to explore, concentrate deeply, and progress at their own pace. Most importantly, your guidance helps each child build confidence, competence, and a strong belief in their own capabilities.

We're seeking Lead Guides who bring warmth, intention, and expertise to support every child in reaching their highest potential.

Lead Guide Responsibilities

• Observe children closely to understand and respond to their physical, emotional, and developmental needs

• Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly classroom that fosters concentration and independence

• Support children in developing autonomy and self-confidence by encouraging them to do things for themselves

• Provide individual and small-group lessons appropriate to each age group and stage of development

• Build strong, trusting relationships with children and cultivate a respectful classroom community

• Partner and communicate effectively with parents to support each child's growth

The Montessori Prepared Environment

Each Guidepost classroom is thoughtfully designed and fully equipped with high-quality Montessori materials appropriate to the age group served. Classrooms reflect Montessori principles of beauty, order, and accessibility, empowering children to learn independently and confidently.

Our environments may include:

• Child-sized furniture and open floor space for independent and small-group work

• Practical life materials that support care of self, care of the environment, and daily routines

• Hands-on, scientifically designed materials for early literacy, math, sensory exploration, and cognitive development

• Low, open shelves with materials accessible to children

• Natural light, real plants, cozy reading areas, and natural materials

An Ideal Candidate Has

• A Montessori diploma for Infants, Toddlers, or 3–6, or willingness to obtain one

• Experience working with young children (infant through preschool) in a group setting

• Familiarity with child-centered or play-based philosophies (Montessori, Reggio Emilia, etc.), or openness to learning

• 12 Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development credits

• A Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field

What We Offer

• The opportunity to contribute to a high-quality Montessori program focused on each child's individual needs

• Sponsored Montessori diploma training and ongoing professional development through the Prepared Montessorian Institute

• 75% tuition discount for up to two children at any Guidepost school (serving children 3 months–6 years)

• A supportive network of peers and mentors who regularly share best practices

• Clear career growth and advancement opportunities

• Competitive salary

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off and paid holidays

About Us

Guidepost Montessori is a growing network of over 100 schools across the U.S. and Asia, serving children from infancy through age six in our Nido, Toddler, and Children's House programs.

We believe children are capable, and we design education for independence. Our mission is to transform education by empowering children to fully and joyfully achieve their development—so they can flourish in school and in life.

If you love working with young children and are looking for a place to grow and make a meaningful impact, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today to join our school community!