Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher

## Description

The Calhoun School, a leading progressive, independent, coeducational day school in Manhattan, seeks a full-time Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher (Grades 1–3) to begin in August 2026.

The key role of the Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher is to cultivate a dynamic, inclusive, and developmentally responsive classroom environment for students in grades 1–3. The teacher will be responsible for delivering a robust Montessori curriculum that aligns with Calhoun’s progressive educational philosophy—one that honors student voice, emphasizes critical thinking, and integrates social justice across disciplines. The ideal candidate brings deep Montessori expertise, a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, and the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with students and families.

**ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES/TASKS**

*Curriculum Development:*

• Develop and deliver rich, integrated Montessori lessons across core content areas, including language, math, cultural studies, and science.
• Align instructional planning with Calhoun’s progressive values, including student-centered inquiry, real-world application, and critical thinking.
• Incorporate anti-bias/anti-racist frameworks and culturally responsive materials that affirm and reflect the identities of all learners.
• Design student work that nurtures independence, creativity, and purpose, while providing meaningful opportunities for collaboration.

*Instruction and Facilitation:*

• Guide a multi-age classroom community, delivering individualized and small-group instruction based on students’ developmental needs and interests.
• Observe and assess students to inform instruction, ensure progress, and support academic, social, and emotional development.
• Facilitate rich discussions and projects that deepen students’ understanding of themselves and the world around them.
• Create and maintain a calm, orderly, and inspiring environment consistent with Montessori principles.

*Classroom Management and Communication:*

• Foster a classroom culture rooted in respect, belonging, and empathy, where students feel seen, valued, and empowered.
• Guide students in developing responsibility for themselves and their community, encouraging social-emotional growth and problem-solving.
• Partner meaningfully with families to support student learning, maintain open lines of communication, and honor each child’s experience.
• Collaborate with colleagues, including learning specialists and enrichment teachers, to create an integrated, joyful learning experience.

## Qualifications
**QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED**

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in education or a related field
• AMI, AMS, or MACTE-accredited Lower Elementary Montessori certification
• Demonstrated commitment to progressive education and social justice
• Strong classroom management, organization, and communication skills
• Experience working with children from diverse backgrounds

**SUCCESS FACTORS/JOB COMPETENCIES**

• Deep respect for children and belief in their agency and potential
• Passion for Montessori pedagogy and progressive education
• Commitment to building a diverse, inclusive, and anti-racist classroom
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Reflective practice and a growth mindset
• Ability to balance structure and flexibility in support of student-centered learning
• Cultural humility, curiosity, and compassion

**PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK REQUIREMENTS**

The employee is required to stand, sit, and navigate the classroom continuously for extended durations, including the lifting and transportation of classroom materials and equipment as necessary.

**COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY WORK**

Calhoun is committed to addressing issues of social justice, diversity, equity, and anti-bias education in our curriculum and in our community. Teachers must be willing learners and participants in supporting this work.

***EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY***

*Calhoun is committed to recruiting, hiring and supporting a diverse staff and welcomes applicants of all* *gender, sexuality, religious, ethnic, racial and cultural identities. Calhoun does not unlawfully discriminate in**employment opportunities or practices on the basis of one’s actual or perceived race; color; religion;* *sex/gender (including gender identity); creed; sexual orientation; marital status; pregnancy; ethnicity; national origin, ancestry, age, and disability.*