Children's House (Primary) Lead Guide (SY 2025-26)

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School is American Montessori Society and Middle States Association  accredited from preschool through sixth grade.  Our program is centered on the writings and vision of Dr. Maria Montessori, providing a directed best practices project-based and inquiry driven learning environment. The school’s guides, teachers and staff live the school’s mission of providing a quality and ‘authentic Montessori education’. We are a  community of  200+ student learners  and staff located in the Brookland neighborhood (1240 Randolph St, NE) of Washington, DC.

Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS is seeking experienced ECE educators, who are  Montessori  educators for the 2025-2026  school year for our Children’s House  learning community ( or “house” and ecosystem)  . Under the general supervision of the Principal and Montessori Director of  Curriculum, Instruction & Community Engagement/Coach  the Guide/teacher  facilitates student academic success and socio-emotional growth in a Montessori public charter school. 

SSMA offers a unique model that provides a  Montessori public education to diverse, urban families in the nation's capital. Serving children in PK3 through 6th grade, SSMA is a community that embraces our parent community , supports  a staff that is committed to children and promotes peace and reflective learning  for all. The guide is  also supported by an instructional coach, teaching associate (Resident- in -training/practicum adult learner ) and/or interventionists, Montessori trained classroom assistant and other student support personnel as needed. 

Essential Qualifications and Skills:

• Montessori certification for the appropriate level of instruction is required


• A Bachelor's degree.


• A deep commitment to the school’s values and being an engaged member of the Montessori community.


• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities, with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.


• A passion for creating an inclusive learning environment.


• A ‘team player’ and collaborative attitude, with a strong desire to contribute to all areas of the school’s activities.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:

• At least three years of teaching experience.


• Demonstrated proficiency in using data to inform  ‘journey mapping’ to monitor student progress


• Montessori materials.


• Enthusiasm for fully implementing Montessori philosophy in a supportive environment.


• A commitment to building strong connections and engaging with students' families.


• A Master’s degree.

Shining Stars  offers a highly competitive compensation package, with salary ranging from $55,000 – $122,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include Health Insurance (including dental and vision), Flex Compensation Plan, ongoing professional development support, short and long term disability, life insurance, tuition remission, and  paid time off / PTO.  

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.