Lead Toddler Guide (18m-3y)
The Role
We are looking for a Lead Guide for our Luma classroom (18 months to 3 years) who will be responsible for building a responsive environment based on the needs and curiosities of the children in the space. The ideal educator for this role is someone who is warm and nurturing, who can build strong, trusting relationships with families, and who can design experiences to extend wonder in our youngest students.
The Luma lead strives to truly see each child and curates the child’s experience based on who they are and where they are developmentally. They are comfortable moving beyond a traditional Montessori setting, incorporating a responsive, child-led approach and daily immersion outdoors in the garden and forest.
Key Responsibilities
- Classroom & Observation: Create and maintain a purposeful, curated, and organized environment that supports the toddler's need for order, movement, and language. Observe, document, and reflect on the developmental progress of each child; adapt the environment and materials to support their emerging independence and interests.
- Family Partnership: Act as the primary point of contact for families, providing clear communication regarding their child’s development and daily transitions.
- Outdoor Exploration: Lead daily outdoor immersion, regardless of the weather, facilitating sensory discovery and gross motor exploration in a natural setting.
- Mentorship: Serve as a mentor to the Assistant Guide, modeling respectful interactions and responsive language with children. Guide the Assistant in embodying the school’s values of inquiry and curiosity while fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Compliance: Ensure all daily operations meet NYS OCFS regulations, including safe sleep, feeding, and hygiene standards.
- Full participation in school events, meetings, and professional development required.
Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience working in early childhood.
- Certification: A Montessori Infant-Toddler (0–3) credential or a commitment to obtaining one is required. We are happy to discuss how we can support your enrollment and growth within an accredited certification program.
- Education: Associate degree in Early Childhood (or related field) OR a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
- Mindset: You are comfortable with the startup nature of a new school and hold a desire to help shape school culture. You enjoy collaborating and planning with team members and are receptive to coaching and feedback. Wildflower dedicates resources and time for regular professional growth and training.
Essential Physical Requirements
- Active Nature: Ability to sit on the floor at the child's level and navigate outdoor terrain.
- Outdoor Transport: Ability to push or pull a multi-child wagon or crib and manage gear for outdoor excursions in various weather conditions.
Benefits & Additional Information
- Housing: Eligibility to apply for a potential on campus affordable housing benefit available for a limited number of teachers.
- Compensation is commensurate with experience and current market standards.