Lead Montessori Primary Teacher

Lead Montessori Primary Teacher (Ages 3–5)

Location - Lincoln Park, Michigan Start Date - Summer 2026

About St. John Paul II Classical Catholic School

St. John Paul II Classical Catholic School offers a Montessori preschool (including religious education through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd) and Kindergarten through Eighth Grade Catholic Classical curriculum.

Position Summary

St. John Paul II Classical Catholic School is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Primary Montessori Teacher to guide a mixed-age classroom of children ages 3–5, beginning Summer 2026. This position is ideal for a Catholic, Montessori-trained educator who brings faith, warmth, patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of the developmental needs of young children. The Lead Teacher is responsible for preparing and maintaining an inspiring Montessori learning environment that supports each child's growth spiritually, intellectually, socially, physically, and emotionally. They will lead instruction, build strong relationships with children and families, and work collaboratively with colleagues across the school.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide and deliver individualized Montessori lessons in Practical Life, food preparation with real food and utensils, Sensorial, Language, Math, Art, Music, Cultural Studies, and Grace & Courtesy.
• Catechesis of the Good Shepherd responsibilities will depend on the candidate and their certification.
• Observe students closely to assess their progress and plan the next steps in their learning, supporting a range of developmental levels within the classroom.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and aesthetically pleasing classroom environment that reflects Montessori principles and promotes safety and self-sufficiency.
• Foster strong, trusting relationships with students that promote empathy, resilience, self-regulation, and joy in learning through respectful, deliberate adult-child interactions.
• Partner with the Montessori team to support smooth classroom flow, lesson delivery, and shared responsibilities.
• Communicate effectively with parents through regular updates, formal conferences, and informal conversations to build a strong home-school connection.
• Collaborate with other faculty members to plan interdisciplinary units, community projects, and cross-classroom experiences.
• Participate in staff meetings, school-wide events, and ongoing professional development.
• Be comfortable using technology for communication.

Required Skills & Experience

A Montessori Primary Certification (AMI, AMS) is required. Minimum of 3 years of experience working as a Lead Teacher in a Montessori 3-6 environment. Level I Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Certification is strongly preferred. Proven ability to plan and implement a rich Montessori curriculum and adapt to the developmental needs of diverse learners. Strong managerial, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. A flexible and responsive approach to working in a dynamic school environment.

Critical Qualities

Strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and a deep love for His Church Developed prayer life Passionate about helping children grow as intentional disciples of Jesus Authentic, charitable, and joyful Humble, with a genuine openness to constructive criticism Self-starter with strong initiative Creative problem solver and incessant tinkerer, constantly driving towards better outcomes Effective planner and implementer Highly responsive and dependable A collaborative spirit and a positive, team-oriented mindset Desire to journey with parents, families, and children in a long-term relationship