Job Description
Upper Elementary Lead Montessori Teacher (AMS)
Anticipated Classroom Launch: September 2027
The Sammamish Montessori School (SMS) offers a carefully prepared Montessori environment that provides a rich variety of learning experiences for Toddler, Primary (Preschool/Kindergarten), Lower Elementary, and soon Upper Elementary students. During these formative years, children learn faster than at any other time in their lives. The Montessori method is intentionally designed to align with the natural sensitive periods of child development and has supported strong academic, social, and emotional growth for over 100 years.
With over 250 students and 60 staff, SMS has been serving families since 1977 (48+ years) and is conveniently located near the Microsoft and Amazon Redmond offices (7655 178th Pl NE, Redmond, WA 98052). Our campus offers easy drive-through pickup/drop-off, expansive outdoor spaces, and a robust set of STEAM and enrichment programs, including Art, Music, Spanish, Piano, and Field Trips.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced, Montessori-credentialed (AMS) Upper Elementary Lead Teacher to join our school as we intentionally plan and launch a new Upper Elementary classroom (Ages 9-12 Years) in September 2027.
This role is designed for a candidate who is excited about building a program thoughtfully and collaboratively. During the period leading up to the classroom launch, the selected candidate will work closely with our Lower Elementary Lead Teacher and leadership team to support curriculum alignment, classroom design, material selection, and program development, ensuring a strong and seamless transition for students moving from Lower to Upper Elementary.
Key Responsibilities
Program Development & Collaboration (Pre-Launch Phase):
• Collaborate with the Lower Elementary Lead Teacher to align curriculum, scope, and sequence across programs
• Participate in planning and setup of the Upper Elementary classroom environment, materials, and resources
• Contribute to the development of Upper Elementary curriculum, projects, and interdisciplinary learning experiences
• Support school leadership in planning for enrollment, transitions, and program launch readiness
Classroom & Teaching Responsibilities (Post-Launch):
• Create and implement developmentally appropriate Montessori lesson plans and long-term curriculum for Upper Elementary students
• Prepare and maintain a calm, orderly, and engaging Upper Elementary classroom environment
• Foster students’ academic growth, independence, responsibility, critical thinking, and social-emotional development
• Observe, document, and assess student progress; maintain accurate records
• Communicate effectively and professionally with families regarding student progress and classroom activities
• Collaborate with colleagues to support a cohesive and positive school culture
• Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and material integrity
Qualifications & Experience
• Upper Elementary Montessori credential (AMS) – required or must be pursuing the credential now
• Prior experience working in a Lower or Upper Elementary Montessori classroom – strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of child development, particularly for ages 9–12
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and school leadership
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills
• Patience, creativity, flexibility, and a genuine passion for Montessori education and adolescent development
Additional Information
This job description is not intended to be exhaustive and may be updated or modified as program needs evolve. SMS is committed to investing in educators who value long-term growth, collaboration, and thoughtful program design.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Pay: $5,000.00 - $7,000.00 per month
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance
Experience:
• Lower or Upper Elementary Montessori Teaching: 2 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
• Upper Elementary Montessori Certification (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
• Redmond, WA 98052: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person