Primary Lead Guide
Knoxville Montessori School is seeking a Primary Lead Guide for the 2026-2027 school year.
KMS is a supportive, loving, and deeply committed Montessori community. We believe that when staff are cared for, supported, and valued, they are better able to care for the children and families we serve. Our staff are not interchangeable. They are essential members of the school community.
The Primary Lead Guide creates and maintains a beautiful, purposeful, authentic Montessori environment for children ages 3-6. The guide supports each child’s academic, social, emotional, physical, and developmental growth through observation, lesson presentation, documentation, family communication, and partnership with the classroom assistant and Primary team.
We are looking for a warm, grounded, capable Montessori guide who values children, protects the prepared environment, communicates with clarity and kindness, and wants to work in a school where their work is seen and appreciated.
Responsibilities include:
- Preparing and maintaining an authentic Montessori Primary environment
- Presenting individual and small-group lessons across all Primary areas
- Observing, documenting, and responding to student progress and needs
- Supporting children’s independence, concentration, coordination, language, Grace and Courtesy, and care of the environment
- Partnering closely with the classroom assistant and Primary team
- Communicating professionally and warmly with families
- Participating in staff meetings, family conferences, school events, and professional development
- Upholding Montessori values, confidentiality, safety expectations, and the Language of Reverence
Required qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Completed Montessori certification for ages 3-6 from a MACTE-accredited training program, or current enrollment in a MACTE-accredited Primary training program
- Strong understanding of Montessori philosophy and first-plane development
- Ability to lead a Primary classroom with warmth, consistency, clarity, and professionalism
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
Preferred qualifications:
- AMI Primary diploma
- Master’s degree
- At least two years of Montessori classroom teaching experience
KMS offers:
- A supportive Montessori community
- One-on-one coaching and administrative support
- Staff representation on the Board of Directors
- Retirement matching
- HRA stipend
- Professional development stipend
- A collaborative team environment
- A school culture where staff are valued and appreciated
If you are a Montessori guide who wants to work in a place where your work matters, your voice is valued, and your growth is supported, we would love to hear from you.
To apply, please include a resume, cover letter, and copy of Montessori credential or current training enrollment information. Applications will be reviewed as received.
