Montessori Lower Elementary Guide (Grades 1st-3rd: Ages 6-9) - SY2026-2027

AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO BE PART OF AN ACCREDITED PUBLIC CHARTER MONTESSORI SCHOOL AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY IN WASHINGTON, DC

JOB POSTING: MONTESSORI LOWER ELEMENTARY LEAD GUIDE (Grades 1st-3rd: Ages 6-9)

School Year: 2026–2027
Department: Academic
Reports To: Principal
Location: Washington, DC
Schedule: Full-Time, 10-Month Position
Compensation: Starting at $61,400–$95,100 and is commensurate with degree(s) earned, licenses, credentials, and experience.

About Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School provides a high-quality Montessori education grounded in culturally inclusive principles that guide children to develop to their fullest potential academically, socially, emotionally, linguistically, and culturally. Located in the Catholic University–Brookland community of Washington, DC, the school serves diverse learners and families through authentic Montessori education and bilingual immersion programming aligned with the expectations of the DC Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB) and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE).

Position Summary

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School is seeking a passionate and dedicated Montessori Lower Elementary Guide to join our dynamic team for the 2026–2027 school year.

The Lower Elementary Guide leads a student-centered Montessori classroom serving students in grades 1–3 and fosters independence, curiosity, academic growth, and social responsibility through authentic Montessori instruction and culturally responsive practices.

Essential Responsibilities

Instruction & Classroom Leadership

• Prepare and maintain a safe, engaging, and organized Montessori prepared environment.
• Deliver individualized, small-group, and whole-group lessons aligned with Montessori philosophy and bilingual immersion instruction.
• Support students’ academic, social-emotional, and language development.
• Foster independence, collaboration, critical thinking, and peaceful conflict resolution.
• Maintain accurate attendance, assessment records, observations, and student progress documentation in accordance with OSSE and school expectations.
• Supervise students throughout the school day, including transitions and outdoor learning.

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with assistants, interventionists, specialists, and school leadership to support all learners.
• Participate in professional development, staff meetings, compliance trainings, and school events.
• Maintain professional and timely communication with families and colleagues.
• Uphold school policies related to confidentiality, student safety, and professional conduct.

Family Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication and conferences.
• Prepare progress reports and student updates according to school expectations.
• Support family understanding of Montessori education and bilingual immersion learning.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree
• Montessori Elementary Credential (AMI, AMS, or MACTE-accredited equivalent)
• Commitment to authentic Montessori education
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Eligibility to work in the United States

Preferred

• Master’s degree
• Two or more years of Montessori teaching experience at the E1 level
• Experience working in diverse urban school communities
• Familiarity with DCPCSB ASPIRE and OSSE expectations.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on education, credentials, and experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• Paid school holidays and breaks
• Professional development and Montessori training , credentialing and, tuition support
• Collaborative and mission-driven school culture
• Opportunities for leadership and growth within the school community

Equal Opportunity Statement

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.