Primary Lead Guide  

Full-Time | 10-Month Position | Exempt | 

Benefits Eligible Location: Onsite Schedule: Monday–Friday, 40 hours/week 

Reports to: Head of School 

Salary: Competitive, based on education and experience  

~About SunGarden Montessori School~ 

At SunGarden Montessori School, we are dedicated to educating the whole child through authentic Montessori practice in purposeful, respectful learning environments. We value curiosity, independence, collaboration, and meaningful partnerships with families, and we are seeking a compassionate Primary Lead Guide to join our community.  

~Position Summary~ 

The Primary Lead Guide creates and maintains an authentic Montessori environment for children ages 3–6 that nurtures independence, concentration, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Through thoughtful observation, individualized lessons, and strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues, the Lead Guide supports each child's unique development while fostering a peaceful, joyful classroom community.  

The Lead Guide also supervises the Classroom Assistant and works closely with the Head of School and teaching team to uphold the mission and values of SunGarden Montessori.  

Key Responsibilities: 

Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly, and engaging Montessori environment. 

Observe children and provide individualized Montessori lessons in Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural studies. 

Foster independence, concentration, grace and courtesy, and respectful social interactions. 

Build strong partnerships with families through regular email and newsletter communication and twice-yearly conferences. 

Maintain accurate student observations and progress records. 

Supervise and mentor the Classroom Assistants. 

Collaborate with colleagues and participate in staff meetings, school events, and professional development. 

Ensure compliance with Montessori standards, school policies, and Oregon licensing requirements while maintaining a safe, nurturing environment for children.   

~Qualifications~  

Required: AMI (preferred), AMS, or other MACTE-accredited Montessori certification (or near completion) Knowledge of child development for ages 3–6 Excellent communication, organization, and collaboration skills 

Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office 

Ability to pass a criminal background check  

Preferred: Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field Montessori classroom experience Bilingual in English and Spanish  

Physical Demands: Ability to frequently move between standing, sitting, squatting, kneeling, and crawling Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds; occasionally lift children up to 75 pounds for safety and care 

Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision necessary for supervision and safety   

~Benefits~  

SunGarden offers a supportive work environment and a competitive benefits package, including: Competitive salary 

Health insurance eligibility after 30 days 

8 days PTO plus 2 professional development days 

16 Guide preparation days annually 

Paid holidays and paid school closures 

$200 annual professional development stipend 

Oregon Saves IRA participation 

Employee Assistance Program 

School-issued laptop 

50% tuition discount for enrolled children of employees  

How to Apply: Please submit a resume and cover letter to (1-page max) to, hello@sungardenmontessori.org addressed to Emily Steele, Head of School, with the subject line:  [Last Name], Primary Lead Guide Application  

The cover letter should include why you are interested in working at SunGarden and how your skills and experience have prepared you for this position.  Finalists will be asked to provide three professional references. 

Position open until filled.  SunGarden Montessori School is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences.