Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher (Grades 1 through 3)

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 2025.

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 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; disability.

SALARY RANGE: $70,000 - $85,000 per year; dependent on years of experience