Lead Toddler Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About Us

Established in 1993, Agape Montessori School provides an authentic Montessori education focused on the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional growth of every child. We combine secure, outstanding care with an environment that stimulates exploration, empowering children to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world.

Agape's Core Values & Culture

Our culture is guided by five core values. Here is what we bring to the table and what we look for in our team members:

• Trust: We build a safe, reliable space for children, families, and staff. We look for candidates who are dependable, honest, and act with integrity.

• Intentionality: Every lesson and classroom material has a purpose. We seek educators who are mindful, prepared, and deliberate in how they guide one-year-olds.

• Dedication: Caring for one-year-olds takes patience and heart. You can expect a team that is fully committed to our mission, and we look for candidates who bring that same passion every day.

• Growth: We believe learning never stops. We support your ongoing professional development—including sponsorship through our Montessori certification program—and look for team members eager to learn, adapt, and grow with us.

• Community: We are a collaborative, supportive family of educators and parents. We value team players who communicate openly and help create a warm, inclusive environment.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated, compassionate Lead Teacher to guide our one-year-old environment of up to 12 children. In this role, you will lead the classroom team, prepare a beautiful and orderly toddler environment, and support each child's foundational milestone development.

Working alongside the assistant teacher, you will play a key role in supporting early independence, observing individual development, and fostering a safe space for rich exploration and self-directed learning. 

While we are looking for a genuine self starter with quality experience and ambition, Agape Montessori School is committed to providing a new teacher with mentorship and guidance from a team of Montessori certified teachers to provide a smooth transition into this leadership role. 

Key Responsibilities

• Environment Preparation: Prepare, organize, and maintain Montessori materials to support purposeful activities and self-directed learning. 

• Classroom Leadership: Maintain the daily routines, meal/snack times, outdoor play, self-care, and smooth transitions to facilitate normalization of the classroom environment. Prepare and follow lesson plans based on the Montessori curriculum. 

• Child Observation: Observe and document student growth and behavior progress and create individualized learning plans based on the Montessori method.

• Community & Safety: Maintain a clean, safe classroom while building positive, respectful relationships with children, coworkers, and parents. Maintain clear and consistent communication with parents, assistant teacher, and school leadership. 

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma required; Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field preferred.

• Certification: Montessori Infant/Toddler Credential preferred, or a strong willingness to complete sponsored Montessori Certification.

• Experience: Prior experience working with toddlers/one-year-olds in a licensed early childhood center or Montessori environment.

• Safety & Clearances:

  • Active CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain via provided training).

  • Ability to pass comprehensive background checks in compliance with Kansas Office of Early Childhood regulations.

• Core Competencies: Strong team leadership, vocal engagement, calm demeanor under pressure, active observation skills, and deep empathy for toddler developmental needs.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive Compensation: Salaried or hourly rate based on education, credentials, experience, and work quality. 

• Paid Time Off & Holidays: Paid Time Off (PTO) package plus 9 paid school holidays and school closure pay for salaried employees.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive supplemental health options including Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Disability, and Telehealth services.

• Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

• Professional Growth: Full sponsorship through our Montessori Certification Program.

• Required Training Provided: Health and safety courses, CPR/First Aid certification, and annual in-service training, and continuous on-site coaching.

• Family Support: Substantial employee tuition discounts for enrolled children.