Assistant Guide (Two's or 3-6)
Ronald Knox Montessori School
Ronald Knox is an AMS accredited school, philosophically rooted in the methods of Maria Montessori. We are looking for an energetic and motivated assistant Guide (Teacher) to join our staff for the 2026-2027 school year, and beyond.
Schedule:
● Monday to Friday: Two's program: 8-3:45 for our 3-6 program: 7:45-3:45
We have a before and after care program. Our school closes at 4pm
Salary:
● Compensation is competitive and evaluated based on education and experience.
Responsibilities: (This is an overview of the position)
- Support the Lead Guides implementation of the Montessori method.
- Establish meaningful, respectful relationships with each child working toward the goal of independence.
- Respectful to colleagues and families
- Assist the Lead Guide in providing opportunities for children to connect with the outdoors, through the use of the playground and Mallinckrodt Park’s flora and habitants.
- Exhibit enthusiasm and continue to develop your knowledge of the curriculum and age group.
- Foster, Guide, and Support students in building independence with self-care, self-discipline, navigating conflict resolution in a positive manner, and ensuring that our children feel valued and respected at all times.
- Work with all faculty and staff to ensure the safety of all Ronald Knox students and to guide students in acting responsibly in the school and on the grounds.
- Protect the privacy and working atmosphere of student groups at all times.
- Work Collaboratively with your team to prepare and maintain a clean and orderly Montessori environment in which the furnishings and materials are complete, appealing and appropriate to the needs of the age group.
- Work to ensure the safety of all the children in your care throughout the entire school day
- Maintain regular communication with the Lead guide and your co-workers about student updates to be sure everyone has the information they need to communicate with families, and/or others effectively.
Education & Experience:
- High School Diploma at minimum, Associate/Bachelor is preferred, Montessori certification(s) are ideal.
- At least two years in a teaching support role or other relevant experience working with children birth through six years of age.
- Montessori experience and/or certification is a plus. (AMS or AMI preferred)
- First Aid, CPR, and Mandated Reporter training is required after being hired.
- Illinois Food Handler training is required after being hired.
- Excellent observation, interpersonal, active listening skills are essential.
- Personal values reflect the values of the school and methods including treating children as competent individuals and appreciating a diverse school environment.
- Must be adaptable to various situations and the changing needs of the school.
- Must be able to stay calm, keep voice volume at a courteous level ensuring private conversations take place at the appropriate time and place for confidentiality.
- Trainings listed below are required before or after being hired (this is a partial list) ; Gateways DCFS required trainings, Montessori paraprofessional/basics class (if applicant doesn’t already have it), Illinois Food handler, CPR/1st Aid, Mandated Reporter, etc.
Our School:
Ronald Knox Montessori school has been a part of the Wilmette community (Northern Suburbs) for over 60 years. Serving children ages 3 months- 6years old. Our programing includes; infant/toddler (parent-child program), two’s (toddler), and Early Childhood (ages 3-6). We also have enrichment programing (Art, Spanish, Drama), and an Early arrival and Late dismissal to accommodate families needing a longer day.
Our hours of operation are as follows;
- 7:45-8:15- Early Bird
- 8:15-3:00pm-school day hours
- 3-4pm- Extended Care
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
Experience:
- Early childhood education: 2 years (Preferred)
- Montessori: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
