2023-2024 Primary Guide in Washington, DC, US

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

Job Opportunity:        PRIMARY LEAD GUIDE (Ages 3-6)
Location:                     Washington, DC
Start Date:                   August 2023
Report(s) To:               Principal

Position Summary:
We are seeking an AMS, AMI or MACTE certified and experienced Lead Guide(s) at the PRIMARY level to join our dynamic and expanding staff for SY 2023-2024. If you possess a sincere commitment to building and directing a quality Montessori environment, offering support and guidance to parents, and collaborating with experienced colleagues, please consider joining the Shining Stars Montessori school community.  The right candidate should possess maturity, dedication, high integrity, good judgment, ability to self-reflect as a member of the teaching staff, and the courage to grow as a teacher leader.  We seek individuals with a clear understanding of Montessori ideals, deep knowledge of the development of children, classroom management and communication skills that nurture self-discipline, order, and confidence in young students.  We can offer you a rewarding experience in a growing and diverse Montessori school in the nation’s capital.

Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS is American Montessori Society and Middle States Association/Council on Elementary and Secondary School accredited. This is a full time and benefited position. Hours are typically Monday – Friday   from 7:45am -4:30pm, with some weekend and evening activities . This position is in- person, but may require virtual presentation of lessons as well.

Essential Responsibilities
Major areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:
Understand and promote the Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS vision, mission, and goals to students, parents, and community
Develop and administer an authentic Montessori Primary curriculum and assessments consistent with the Montessori Method and aligned with the Montessori Learning Standards and District of Columbia  Common Core State Standards
Conduct ongoing observations assessments of student learning, and modify instructional methods to fit individual student needs, including for students with special needs and/or English Language Learners
Lead individual and small group instruction as needed
Work with the community of students, teachers, parents and administrators, in articulating and maintaining the integrity and scope of the Montessori Method
Develop and prepare the Montessori classroom environment, materials, and lessons to meet the students’ needs and interests.
Present consistent individual and group lessons to the students and supporting each child’s socio-emotional and academic progress and learning success
Record observations of student work on a daily basis to check for student understanding, progress and achievement.
Manage and document student attendance on a daily basis.
Participate in ongoing professional development , recommended conferences, training programs, SSMA in-service and/or PD workshops, courses, and other areas of professional growth.
Participate in SSMA Back to School, Open House, Montessori Saturday Academy, Curriculum Day, Peace Assemblies  and other special/extracurricular activities and programs as requested.
Administer standardized tests in accordance with District of Columbia and Public Charter School Board assessment requirements
Instruct students in the principles of Grace and Courtesy
Develop and sustain positive relationships with parents, children and families
Attend all school staff meetings, and other meetings as required
Check/examine shared areas such as bathroom, playground, for health and safety hazards

Education & Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Education, Elementary Education or a related discipline is required; Master’s Degree is preferred.
AMI, AMS, IMC certification/Diploma in Elementary  Education from a MACTE recognized or affiliate – Teacher Education Program required.
Advanced degrees, or multiple credentials (e.g., Special Education, Reading, ESOL, Music, Art, etc.)
Praxis II certification and passing scores preferred
Understanding of Montessori Learning standards and alignment to Common Core Standards
Prior experience in a Montessori) classroom environment preferred.
Prior experience working in a diverse student and adult community
Spanish, Amharic, or French language fluency is a plus
Must be eligible to work in the United States
A love of children and a sense of humor
Teaching experience in a variety of instructional settings, including working with students from diverse populations and a commitment to cultural empowerment and culturally inclusive practices preferred.
Commitment to equity
A passion for growing independent, confident, and intellectually curious children;
A good listener with a love of children and sense of humor.

Compensation:
Salary for this position is competitive. In addition, a comprehensive benefits package is included.

Contact
Human Resource
Shining Stars Montessori Academy
1240 Randolph St. NE. Washington DC. 20017
Phone: (202) 723-1467
Email: Careers@shiningstarspcs.org

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.

ShiningStarsPCS.org