Montessori Teacher

Rainbow Montessori is an intimate, boutique primary micro-school (serving children ages 2.5 to 6). Capped at a small circle of 12–18 children with low child-to-guide ratios (1:6–1:9), our classroom is a peaceful, unhurried sanctuary built on authentic Montessori principles, gentle attunement, and joyful child-led discovery.

We are not a high-volume commercial daycare center or a high-pressure academic drill school. We are a calm, child-centered environment where adults model emotional self-possession, respect the child’s work cycle, and cultivate independence through warmth and gentle boundaries.

The Role

We are seeking a Montessori Assistant Guide / Lead-Qualified Assistant who thrives in a quiet, harmonious setting. Working closely with our Founder & Center Director (an AMS-trained Montessori Lead Guide), you will help maintain the beauty, order, and peaceful rhythm of our prepared environment.

Whether you are a certified Montessorian, a student currently pursuing your MACTE/AMS/AMI training, or an experienced Early Childhood Educator with a deep heart for gentle, progressive education, this role offers a supportive, low-stress space to practice authentic early childhood art.

Key Responsibilities

• Environmental Support & Preparation: Maintain the order, cleanliness, and aesthetic beauty of the indoor and outdoor Montessori environments, ensuring materials are complete and accessible.
• Gentle Classroom Presence: Support children during the work cycle through observation, soft modeling, and unobtrusive assistance—respecting their concentration and emerging independence.
• Emotional Attunement & Regulation: Utilize calm-corner practices, heavy work/practical life tasks, and peaceful choice-giving to support children through transitions and social-emotional moments.
• Licensing & Health Supervision: Ensure safety, hygiene, and full alignment with California Community Care Licensing (CCL) standards at all times.
• Partnering with the Lead Guide: Collaborate seamlessly with the Center Director/Lead Guide on classroom rhythms, individual child observations, and subtle grace and courtesy exercises.

Qualifications & RequirementsRequired:

• ECE Units: Minimum of 12 Early Childhood Education (ECE) / Child Development units completed (or actively in progress), ideally including or open to completing 3 units in Administration/Supervision to fulfill lead assistant requirements.
• Heart & Philosophy: A deep commitment to gentle, child-led learning, respectful communication, and emotional attunement.
• Personal Qualities: Calm demeaner, soft speaking voice, high observation skills, and emotional self-possession under pressure.
• Clearances: Ability to pass criminal background clearance (LiveScan), TB test, and required California health/immunization mandates for preschool staff.

Preferred (A Plus, But Not Required):

• AMS, AMI, or MACTE Primary Credential (or currently enrolled in a MACTE teacher training program).
• 2+ years of experience in a Montessori, RIE, Reggio-Emilia, or progressive/gentle preschool environment.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Low-Density Sanctuary: No overwhelming crowds or 1:12+ chaotic ratios—enjoy deep, meaningful connections with a small cohort of children.
• Respectful Environment: Work alongside a Lead Director who values your energy, mental peace, and personal growth.
• Mentorship & Practice: Deepen your understanding of authentic Montessori methodology, child observation, and gentle classroom management.
• Competitive Compensation & Predictable Schedule: Consistent, respected hours in a clean, beautiful, home-centered micro-school environment.

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Education:

• Associate (Required)

License/Certification:

• MACTE Montessori Credential (Required)

Work Location: In person