Pre-School Montessori Guide-Teacher (ages 3-5)

• Reports To: Principal
• Location: Acton Academy Calgary Central

Position Summary

Are you passionate about inspiring young minds? Do you dream of shaping the foundation of an innovative, learner-driven school as a founding educator? Acton Academy Calgary Central (AACC) is seeking a passionate Preschool Guide to lead a classroom of 3–5-year-olds in a Montessori-inspired, learner-driven environment. This unique role focuses on guiding rather than traditional teaching, empowering children to take responsibility for their own learning and growth. As a founding educator, you will play a pivotal role in shaping a dynamic educational community that blends Montessori principles with Acton Academy’s philosophy. Your mission will be to create a respectful, engaging, and joyful learning environment where children develop foundational skills, independence, and a lifelong love for learning.

Purpose

The Pre-School Guide-Teacher's primary purpose is to facilitate students' learning and development by implementing curriculum in a developmentally appropriate manner. This role ensures that the environment fosters engagement, critical thinking, and a love for learning while adhering to the legal obligations and responsibilities outlined in the School Act, Acton Academy’s principles, the provincial curriculum, and the Teaching Professional Code of Conduct.

Key Responsibilities
Guide Responsibilities
• Observe and adapt to the needs of individual learners, providing appropriate invitations and challenges to foster growth.
• Facilitate a learner-driven studio environment where children are empowered to explore, wonder, and grow independently, fostering independence and self-management.
• Inspire and equip learners through Socratic methods, encouraging curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• Prepare and maintain an organized, inviting classroom environment aligned with Montessori principles, Acton Academy’s philosophy, and focused learning standards.
• Model a growth mindset and uphold a positive studio culture, ensuring a safe, respectful, and thriving learning environment.
• Observe and adapt to individual learners’ needs, offering tailored challenges and invitations to promote growth and achievement.
• Make learning relevant and fun to the learners.

Montessori-Inspired Practices

• Utilize Montessori materials and methods to support hands-on, experiential learning and foundational skill-building.
• Guide children in developing practical life skills, sensory exploration, and academic competencies while fostering grace, courtesy, and respect within the classroom.
• Promote order, concentration, and independence through carefully designed activities and a prepared environment that supports purposeful engagement.

Child Development and Support
• Observe and assess children’s behavior and academic progress, addressing unmet developmental or learning needs with patience and care.
• Provide individualized guidance to build learners’ confidence, value, and sense of community while fostering trust and rapport.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and promote social-emotional growth using restorative practices.
• Partner with families to support each child’s unique developmental journey.

Operational Responsibilities
• Design and implement a balanced daily schedule that includes individual and group activities, quiet and active periods, and opportunities for exploration and creative learning.
• Maintain accurate student records, monitor progress, and share updates with families regularly.
• Collaborate with the Principal, staff, and families to ensure alignment with AACC’s mission, vision, and values.
• Demonstrate confidentiality, professionalism, and an enthusiastic commitment to supporting children’s learning and growth.
• Access ongoing professional learning opportunities to stay informed about best practices and innovative educational strategies.
• Leverage technology to enhance learning and maintain efficient digital records of student progress.
• Exhibit strong oral, written, and listening skills to communicate effectively with children, families, and colleagues.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
• Hold a valid Early Childhood Educator certification or Alberta Teaching Certificate (Interim or Permanent Professional Certificate).
• Trained in Montessori or Reggio-Emilia principles.
• Proven experience managing a classroom of young children in a Montessori or learner-driven environment.
• Familiarity with Acton Academy’s philosophy and guide practices is an asset.

Skills and Attributes
• Inspirational guide with a deep respect for young children’s abilities and potential.
• Committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and joyful learning environment.
• Adaptable and patient, with the ability to support each child’s unique learning journey effectively.
• Strong observational skills to identify and respond to individual developmental and academic needs.
• Excellent communication skills to build meaningful relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• Skilled in organizing and maintaining a purposeful, engaging learning environment.
• Proficient in using digital tools for record-keeping and tracking children's progress.

Key Terms of Employment
• Reports directly to the Principal.
• Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications, including Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund (ATRF) contributions.
• Adheres to Alberta labour laws and standards for early childhood education.

How to Apply: If you are ready to inspire and guide young learners on their educational journey, we invite you to apply. Please submit your cover letter and resume via email to [email protected]. For additional information about Acton Academy Calgary Central, visit our website at www.ActonCentral.org.