Before You Begin Your Search
Finding the right Montessori position requires preparation and strategy. Unlike traditional teaching jobs, Montessori positions value specific training, philosophy alignment, and understanding of child development principles.
Key Preparation Steps
- • Complete or be enrolled in Montessori certification
- • Gain observation experience in Montessori classrooms
- • Understand the specific age group you want to teach
- • Research schools that align with your educational philosophy
- • Prepare portfolio of your work and understanding of Montessori principles
Crafting Your Montessori Resume
Your resume should highlight your Montessori training, philosophy understanding, and experience with child-centered learning approaches.
Essential Resume Sections
Professional Summary
Start with a compelling summary that highlights your Montessori training, teaching philosophy, and passion for child-centered education.
Example: "Certified Montessori Primary Guide with 5+ years of experience fostering independent learning in prepared environments..."
Montessori Education
List your Montessori certification prominently, including the certifying organization (AMS/AMI), level, and year completed.
Example: "AMS Primary Montessori Certification (Ages 3-6), 2023"
Experience Section Tips
- • Use Montessori terminology (guide, environment, materials, observation)
- • Highlight experience with multi-age classrooms and mixed-age learning
- • Mention specific Montessori materials and curriculum areas you've worked with
- • Include parent communication and conference experience
- • Show understanding of child development and individual learning styles
Skills to Highlight
Montessori-Specific
- • Observation techniques
- • Grace and courtesy
- • Prepared environment
- • Individual lesson planning
Child Development
- • Developmental milestones
- • Sensitive periods
- • Individual learning styles
- • Positive discipline
Communication
- • Parent conferences
- • Student observation
- • Multilingual abilities
- • Team collaboration
Where to Find Montessori Jobs
Montessori positions are often posted on specialized platforms and through professional networks. Here are the best places to look:
Specialized Job Boards
- • Montessori.Jobs (comprehensive listings)
- • AMS Job Board
- • AMI Job Listings
- • MontessoriPost.com
- • Regional Montessori associations
Professional Networks
- • Montessori conferences
- • Training program networks
- • LinkedIn Montessori groups
- • Local Montessori meetups
- • Alumni networks
Direct School Contact
- • School websites
- • Direct application
- • Substitute teaching
- • Volunteer opportunities
- • Open house events
General Job Boards
- • Indeed (with Montessori filter)
- • LinkedIn
- • TeachingJobs.com
- • Local education boards
- • University job boards
Preparing for Montessori Interviews
Montessori interviews often include teaching demonstrations, philosophy discussions, and questions about your approach to child-centered learning.
Common Interview Questions
Philosophy Questions
- • How do you view the role of the teacher in a Montessori classroom?
- • Describe your understanding of the prepared environment.
- • How do you handle challenging behaviors in a Montessori setting?
- • What does "follow the child" mean to you?
Practical Questions
- • How do you observe and document student progress?
- • Describe a typical day in your classroom.
- • How do you introduce new materials to children?
- • How do you work with parents in the Montessori approach?
Interview Preparation Tips
- • Research the school's specific Montessori approach and philosophy
- • Prepare to discuss your training and ongoing professional development
- • Practice presenting a Montessori lesson or material
- • Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's environment and community
- • Bring examples of your observation notes and student work
- • Review key Montessori principles and be ready to discuss them
Teaching Demonstration
Many schools will ask you to demonstrate a lesson. Choose something you're comfortable with and that shows your understanding of Montessori principles.
- • Choose a practical life or sensorial activity
- • Demonstrate clear, slow movements
- • Show how you would invite a child to try
- • Explain the direct and indirect aims
- • Discuss error control and extensions
Application Best Practices
When applying to Montessori schools, attention to detail and demonstration of your understanding of Montessori principles is crucial.
1
Tailor Your Application
Research each school's specific approach. Some may be more traditional AMI, others may blend approaches. Adapt your cover letter to show alignment.
2
Demonstrate Philosophy Understanding
Use your cover letter to show deep understanding of Montessori principles, not just surface knowledge. Give specific examples of how you've applied these concepts.
3
Include Relevant Documentation
Attach your Montessori certificate, observation samples, and any additional training certificates. These demonstrate your commitment to the approach.
4
Follow Up Professionally
Send a thank-you note after interviews and follow up if you haven't heard back. Show continued interest while respecting their timeline.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not all schools claiming to be "Montessori" follow authentic practices. Here are warning signs to watch for:
- • Schools that don't require or value Montessori certification
- • Rigid schedules that don't allow for the three-hour work cycle
- • Emphasis on testing and traditional grading systems
- • Teachers who aren't trained in Montessori methods
- • Lack of authentic Montessori materials
- • No mixed-age classrooms
- • High teacher turnover rates