Summer Casa Lead Guide

Sunny Hollow Montessori is seeking an experienced, passionate, and nurturing Summer Casa Lead Guide to lead one of our Early Childhood classrooms in our vibrant Summer Montessori Camp Program. Starting compensation is $29/hour. Dates of employment are June 8 – August 21, 2026, with hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

This seasonal leadership role offers a rewarding opportunity to guide children ages 3–6 in a joyful, hands-on learning environment rooted in Montessori principles and enriched by the creativity, exploration, and energy of summer camp.

Our summer camp blends Montessori values such as independence, respect, curiosity, and community with nature-based play, art, movement, and themed experiences. The Lead Guide will create a warm, engaging classroom culture while working closely with assistants and fellow staff to deliver a high-quality summer program.

Education & Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Montessori credential (AMI, AMS, or equivalent) appropriate to Early Childhood preferred

Experience

• Experience working as a lead teacher or guide in a Montessori or early childhood setting preferred
• Experience in summer camp or enrichment programming a plus

Certifications & Competencies

• Must meet Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Rule 3 qualifications for a Teacher
• Strong understanding of child development and Montessori philosophy
• Current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain prior to camp start
• Excellent leadership, communication, and classroom management skills
• Energetic, flexible, and enthusiastic approach to working with children
  
   

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Classroom Leadership & Program Implementation

• Create and maintain a safe, engaging, and organized Montessori-inspired classroom environment
• Lead daily learning activities including Montessori work cycles, creative projects, outdoor exploration, and group experiences
• Adapt curriculum and activities to meet the developmental needs and interests of children
• Foster independence, cooperation, curiosity, and a love of learning

Supervision & Safety

• Ensure children’s physical and emotional well-being at all times
• Supervise children throughout the camp day including arrival, dismissal, classroom time, outdoor play, snack/lunch, and special activities
• Follow all school safety procedures and summer program guidelines

Care of Environment

• Prepare, organize, and maintain classroom materials and outdoor spaces
• Ensure cleanliness and order throughout the day
• Support smooth transitions and daily routines

Team Collaboration

• Lead and support Assistant Guides and summer staff in daily classroom operations
• Communicate expectations clearly and model positive Montessori practices
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and program planning
• Share observations and insights about children’s progress and needs

Family Communication

• Greet families warmly and professionally at drop-off and pick-up
• Share daily or weekly classroom highlights as directed by the Summer Program
• Maintain confidentiality and respectful communication

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move comfortably between standing, walking, sitting on the floor, bending, and kneeling
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Stamina to actively participate in outdoor play, water activities, and movement-based experiences
• Regular exposure to sensory play materials and child-generated messes
  
   

Work Environment

The Summer Casa Lead Guide works in an active, engaging environment that combines Montessori philosophy with the joyful energy of summer camp. Days include structured learning time, creative projects, outdoor exploration, water play, and group activities. The role requires leadership, flexibility, physical stamina, and a calm, positive presence. Work takes place both indoors and outdoors in warm weather, with consistent collaboration among staff and respectful communication with families. This is a full-time, seasonal, on-site position with no remote work option.

Summer Benefits & Incentives

• One (1) vacation week included during the summer program
  
   
• $100 attendance bonus for each full work week completed with no missed days
  
   

Sunny Hollow Montessori is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.