Good Shepherd Montessori School, Lower Elementary Montessori Guide (Ages 6–9)

School: Good Shepherd Montessori School

Location: South Bend, IN

Job Title: Lower Elementary Montessori Guide (Ages 6–9)

Description: Lower Elementary Montessori Guide Opportunity – Good Shepherd Montessori School
ROLE: Lower Elementary Montessori Guide (Ages 6–9)
LOCATION: South Bend, IN
SALARY: $40K — $46K, based on experience
The Mission
Good Shepherd Montessori School is a diverse, cooperative learning community that uses the Montessori method to nurture the character and uniqueness of the child and to inspire wonder and a joy of learning. The school fosters spiritual growth in the Christian tradition and cultivates compassionate relationships with all people and just stewardship of the world’s resources.
Good Shepherd Montessori School seeks a dedicated and experienced Lower Elementary Lead Guide to join our vibrant school community for the 2026–2027 academic year. This is an exciting opportunity for a Montessori-trained educator to contribute to our authentic Montessori program that values hands-on exploration, environmental stewardship, and the development of compassionate global citizens.
Located on an urban farm, Good Shepherd serves children from early childhood through junior high in a community grounded in curiosity and joy. Our unique land-based learning program and commitment to social justice make our school distinctive.
The Lower Elementary Lead Guide will join a team that values authenticity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to Montessori principles. Reporting to the Head of School, the Lead Guide will work in partnership with assistants, specialists, and families to guide each child's academic and personal growth in alignment with Montessori philosophy and Good Shepherd's mission to cultivate self-directed, life-ready learners.
Qualifications
Montessori 6–9 or 6–12 certification (MACTE accredited)


Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field


2–3 years of experience working with elementary-aged children


Commitment to authentic Montessori practice


Experience with neurodiverse learners and high emotional intelligence


Strong collaboration skills to build relationships with children, families, and colleagues


A passion for fostering independence, curiosity, and love of learning


Commitment to children


Responsibilities
Planning, Preparation, and Instruction
Design and facilitate Montessori instruction for students ages 6–9


Create interdisciplinary, inquiry-driven lessons appropriate for the second plane of development


Differentiate instruction as necessary to meet the needs of students


Maintain student records, including progress reports and conference notes


Collaborate with faculty and staff across campus


Classroom Environment and Management
Maintain a prepared environment that fosters independence and responsibility


Model conflict resolution and community-building strategies


Establish community and routines to support social development


Guide students in balancing freedom with responsibility


Communication
Build strong relationships with students and families through regular communication


Contribute to school publications when necessary


Conduct conferences and complete progress reports


Support parent understanding of Montessori philosophy


Participate in scheduled family engagement events (e.g., Parent Education Nights) throughout the school year


Professional Responsibility
Participate in staff meetings and school events


Engage in monthly professional development opportunities


Help maintain our indoor and outdoor prepared environments


Additional Information
Position Type: Full-time, 10-month position starting August 2026
Benefits Include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with 75% of the premium covered by the school


Tuition remission (minimum 80% covered by the school)*


Generous PTO policy


Professional development support
*Partially funded by the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program (voucher).

To express interest or to request more information, please send your resume to: info@montessorimakers.org

Good Shepherd Montessori School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, creed, religion, sex or gender, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, or in any other way based on personal identity markers that do not relate to the capacity of an individual person to carry out the responsibilities of a role.

Contact Method: email info@montessorimakers.org