Teacher, Elementary Grades 1-3

The Lead Guide is responsible for creating a safe, respectful, and nurturing classroom environment while guiding all students in the development of self-discipline, self-confidence, cooperation, and responsibility.

Key Areas of Focus

• Develop and implement the curriculum in accordance with the school guidelines, Montessori philosophy, Florida's Education Standards, and best practices.
• Maintain a Montessori classroom environment that promotes cooperation, exploration, personal development, and peace.
• Support student achievement by maintaining accurate recordkeeping and implementing interventions as needed.
• Engage parents as partners in education by regularly communicating student progress as well as offering information about the school's programming and practices.
• Participate in professional development for intellectual growth.
• Model the Montessori core values of respect for self, others, and the environment as a representative of the school.

Results Expected

• Students will demonstrate competence with the academic content for their developmental level and will thrive in the school environment.
• Parents will be aware of the school's policies and practices, will be informed of ways to support their child's development, and will be active participants in the school community.
• Staff will embody the school's educational mission by acting with integrity as professionals and cultivating the qualities of humanitarianism and peace in the community.

Professional Competency Requirements

• Pass Appropriate Subject Area Examination
• Complete Florida Teacher Education Requirements
• Complete Accredited Montessori Training

Behavior Competency Requirements

• Professionalism
• Communication skills
• Flexibility/adaptability
• Enthusiasm
• Ability to problem-solve
• Team collaboration
• Personal drive and determination

General Responsibilities

• Maintain responsibility for student safety and physical well-being at all times.
• Work with instructional team and Principal to develop and implement supplemental curriculum studies
• Plan and coordinate field trips that enhance the curriculum.
• Hold parent conferences twice yearly (or more as needed) to provide feedback on student progress.
• Communicate with parents, regularly, via newsletter and school website.
• Respond in a timely manner to all parent inquiries.
• Provide extra support as needed to students and parents who are new to Montessori.
• Be familiar with the Parent Handbook.
• Complete ESE paperwork and attend IEP meetings as needed.
• Supervise, guide and support Classroom Assistant to effectively share and participate in classroom activities to meet academic directives.
• Follow policies and procedures detailed in Employee Handbook.
• Attend all faculty/staff meetings.
• Participate in all staff professional days.
• Maintain all materials, furniture, library books in good condition. Notify Principal or designee of needs for repair or replacement.
• Observe all school deadlines (i.e. newsletters, progress reports).
• Notify Front Office Administrator of all repair/maintenance needs.
• Help plan and attend all Open Houses and Parent Education nights.
• Attend and assist with all school performances and overnight trips.
• Voice concerns and seek help from Principal in a timely and positive manner.

Certification

• Eligibility for Florida certification is required. FL certification in Elementary Education Grades K-6 or Prekindergarten Primary Ed is a prerequisite for teaching in field. The Bureau of Educator Certification has developed instructional videos to guide applicants through the certification process, covering topics such as Florida's Online Educator Certification System Set-up and the Florida Teacher Certification Application. Visit https://flcertify.fldoe.org/datamart/mainMenu.do to login or create a new user account.