Guidepost Montessori·Federal Way, Washington
The Lead Guide is responsible for managing a mixed-age Montessori classroom, preparing the environment, and providing individualized lessons to support child development. They must also build strong, respectful relationships with families and communicate effectively regarding each child's progress.
Inspire curiosity.
Build independence.
Shape a lifelong love of learning.
At Guidepost Montessori, our Lead Children’s House Guides empower children ages 3–6 to grow into confident, capable learners through thoughtfully prepared environments and respectful, individualized guidance.
If you’re passionate about early childhood education and excited to lead a classroom where independence and joy take center stage, we’d love to meet you.
Your Role As a Lead Children’s House Guide, you’ll lead a mixed-age preschool classroom in a Montessori environment designed to nurture concentration, confidence, and deep learning.
Montessori guides carefully prepare their classrooms to spark curiosity and independence.
Through close observation, individualized lessons, and intentional language, you’ll support each child’s academic, social, and emotional development meeting them where they are and helping them grow.
Children in Montessori classrooms have the freedom to choose meaningful work, repeat activities until mastery, and take pride in their accomplishments.
Your guidance helps every child develop focus, confidence, and a strong belief in their own abilities.
What You’ll Do Observe each child closely to understand and support their physical, intellectual, and emotional development Prepare and maintain a beautiful, orderly classroom that fosters concentration and independence Encourage self-confidence by supporting children as they learn to “do it themselves” Provide individualized and small-group lessons in practical life, literacy, math, and beyond Build strong, respectful relationships with children and families Communicate and collaborate with parents to support each child’s growth Lead your classroom with warmth, professionalism, and purpose The Montessori Prepared Environment Every Guidepost Children’s House classroom is fully equipped with high-quality Montessori materials and designed around the principles of beauty, order, and accessibility.
A Guidepost Children’s House environment includes: Child-sized furniture and ample floor space for independent and small-group work Practical life materials for sweeping, food preparation, table setting, and care of the environment Curriculum that builds independence in dressing, feeding, and self-care Hands-on materials for literacy, math, science, and cultural studies Low shelves and child-level artwork for full accessibility Cozy reading spaces, real plants, and abundant natural light Beautiful, breakable materials made from wood, metal, and glass What We’re Looking For Montessori diploma for ages 3–6, or willingness to obtain certification (fully sponsored) Experience working with children ages 3–6 in a group learning environment Alignment with child-led philosophies such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia Required ECE or Child Development credits Bachelor’s degree in (Child Development or Early Childhood Education)
Sponsored Montessori diploma training through the Prepared Montessorian Institute Ongoing professional development and mentorship Competitive salary
$41,000-48,000 Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off and paid holidays 75% tuition discount for up to two children at any Guidepost school A supportive network of passionate educators Clear opportunities for career growth and leadership advancement About Guidepost Montessori Guidepost Montessori is a growing network of over 100 schools across the U.S. and Asia, serving children ages 3 months to 6 years in our Nido, Toddler, and Children’s House programs. We believe children are capable. Our mission is to transform education by designing learning environments that cultivate independence, joy, and lifelong curiosity for children, families, and educators alike. Guidepost Global Education and Guidepost Montessori are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO). We will not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, creed, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, alienage or citizenship, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under applicable federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. Our leadership is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy. When requested, we are committed to reasonably accommodate employees and applicants with disabilities or special needs that may require an accommodation.
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and possess or be willing to obtain a Montessori diploma for ages 3-6. Experience working with children in a group learning environment is required.
Part-Time Substitute Teacher
Substitute Toddler Teacher
Assistant Teacher
Market context
In Washington, Lead Preschool Guide roles are typically in steady demand at Montessori and early childhood programs serving preschool-age children. Competition often centers on candidates who already have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and either hold, or are willing to obtain, a Montessori diploma for ages 3-6. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm your group-learning experience and Montessori training plan in your application.