Sy 23-24 Lower Elementary Guide (Ages 6-9; Grades 1-3)

Essential Responsibilities

Major areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:

• Understanding and promoting the Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS vision, mission, and goals to students, parents, and the community.
• Develop and administer an authentic Montessori Lower Elementary curriculum and assessments consistent with accredited Montessori training and aligned with the District of Columbia’s Common Core State Standards.
• Be available to the Classroom/Teaching Assistant to provide opportunities to share questions and observations.
• Instruct students in the principles of the school's Grace & Courtesy and Peace curricular.
• Participate in the establishment and maintenance of an atmosphere of collegial support and adherence to professional standards.
• Partake in the school’s cycle of evaluation;
• Deliver the Primary Montessori Curriculum with fidelity while infusing culturally relevant practices and ensuring that state learning standards are being met;
• Organize and maintain a system for accurate and complete record-keeping/reporting for all student activities, including but not limited to: achievement and attendance as required by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) and Public Charter School Board procedures
• Be available to assist with additional duties as assigned.
• Conduct daily observation/assessments of student learning, and modify instructional methods to fit individual student needs, including for students with special needs, English Language Learners and/or advanced learners.
• Hold a minimum of two formal conferences yearly with parents to effectively communicate student progress.
• Model integrity, curiosity, responsibility, creativity, and respect for all persons as well as an appreciation for racial, cultural, religious, linguistic, learning diversity; and
• Prepare the environment daily to meet children’s various needs by ensuring the classroom is well-equipped;
• Communicate regularly with parents to promote the school’s mission, objectives, and policies and to foster an environment of open communication.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, staff meetings and recommended conferences, training programs, courses, and other areas of professional growth as required by the school.

Education & Qualifications

• Praxis II certification and passing scores preferred
• Spanish, Amharic, or French language fluency is a plus
• Prior experience in a Montessori) classroom environment preferred.
• AMI certification/Diploma in Elementary Education from a MACTE recognized or affiliate - Teacher Education Program required.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States
• Advanced degrees, or multiple credentials (e.g., Special Education, Reading, ESOL, Music, Art, etc.)
• Prior experience working in a diverse student and adult community
• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Education, Elementary Education or a related discipline is required; Master’s Degree is preferred.
• Understanding of Montessori Learning standards and alignment to Common Core Standards
• A love of children and a sense of humor
• Elementary certification (ages 6-9) from a Montessori Accreditation Committee for Teacher Education (MACTE) approved program (AMS, AMI, IMS, NCME, etc.) appropriate to the age level being taught. Candidates may be at the Practicum stage of Montessori certification, however, full certification is preferred.

Salary: $2000/Signing Bonus