Career Opportunities

We are seeking a creative and passionate part-time Toddler classroom assistant to cover afternoon hours in our Certified Family early learning program on a stunning heritage property in Lake Oswego.

Why Join Us?

• Gain hands-on experience working with passionate educators in a supportive, well-resourced environment.

• Be a part of a growing team with opportunities to learn and develop your skills in early childhood education.

Essential Responsibilities

• This is a part-time position is for 25-28 hrs/wk to cover the afternoon shift of 12:30 - 5:30 PM

• Assist the Lead Teacher in providing care and support for children in a structured learning environment.

• Maintain the mandated safe adult:child ratio of 1:4 at all times

• Help with transitions, mealtimes, maintaining classroom cleanliness, and supporting activities.

• Supervise children during playtime, meals, and nap times to ensure their safety.

• Support the children’s personal needs, including assisting with bathroom breaks, handwashing, and proper hygiene.

• Help prepare learning materials and activities that foster creativity, social-emotional growth, and cognitive development.

Minimum Qualifications

• Enrollment in the Central Background Registry

• Step 3 or higher ORO (Oregon Registry Online) certification

• Valid Adult and Pediatric CPR & First Aid & Food Handler’s certifications (or willingness to obtain).

• Required trainings for Infant/Toddler and Preschool classroom workers per Oregon's Department of Early Learning and Care (or willingness to obtain)

• A passion for working with young children in a supportive, nurturing environment.

• Ability to collaborate with Lead Teachers and other staff to support developmentally appropriate growth and learning.

• Strong communication skills and an eagerness to learn.

• Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment.

• Willingness and ability to adhere to best practices for high quality early learning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience and/or training in Montessori Assistants to Infancy or Primary environment or similar in Waldorf or Reggio Emilia

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate of $25-$28, DOE

• Small, family-like work setting

• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within our expanding program.

At Pinecone, we are redefining early childhood education. Our philosophy blends the fundamentals of Montessori with the emphasis on nature and community of Waldorf and Reggio Emilia, creating a nurturing environment that fosters independence, connection, and whole-child development. We support the growth of both children and staff, and offer opportunities for personal and professional development in a collaborative setting. While our primary focus is on nurturing the children in our care, we are equally committed to investing in our staff’s growth and well-being. Join us as we build a brighter future together!

expires 10.4.25

JOB TITLE: AMI-Trained Toddler Classroom Guide

REPORTS TO: Director of Education

JOB STATUS: Full-Time / Non-Exempt

SALARY RANGE: $60,000 - $66,000

BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Sick Leave, Vacation, 401(k) with 3% match

Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Toddler Classroom Guide to foster a collaborative, inclusive, and nurturing school environment. This educator will embody our mission and values, prioritizing the education and development of children aged 15 months to three years in a Montessori setting.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a Montessori Toddler Classroom, ensuring a supportive and enriching learning experience for all children.

• Implement AMI teaching principles and apply child development knowledge to interpret and practice Montessori pedagogy effectively.

• Mentor and train Classroom Assistants and substitute teachers to support classroom objectives.

• Create and maintain an equitable and inclusive environment for all children.

• Align classroom activities with the school's mission to inspire curiosity and facilitate each child's holistic development—intellectually, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

• Communicate regularly with parents through emails and newsletters, providing updates on classroom activities and student progress.

• Organize and conduct parent education programs in collaboration with the Director of Education.

• Schedule and lead Parent-Teacher Conferences twice a year to discuss student progress.

• Collaborate with the Director of Education and staff to address student support needs.

• Ensure compliance with all Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) licensing requirements in the classroom.

• Complete necessary training to maintain compliance and enhance professional development.

• Work with the Director of Admissions to support recruitment and admissions efforts.

• Provide leadership training and professional development opportunities for classroom staff.

• Uphold AMI principles and ensure a high-fidelity Montessori experience in the Toddler Classroom.

• Engage with prospective families through observation sessions and informational meetings.

• Participate actively in staff meetings and planning sessions.

• Foster a school environment that promotes anti-racism and anti-bias principles.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, staff, and school matters.

• Perform duties with professionalism and integrity, contributing positively to the school community.

Minimum Qualifications

• AMI Toddler Montessori Certification.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education or a related field, or two years of relevant experience in Toddler Montessori education (Master’s Degree preferred).

• Proven experience collaborating with parents and families in an educational setting.

• Training or experience in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, or Anti-Bias/Anti-Racist (ABAR) practices.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

• Ability to establish cooperative and effective working relationships.

• High degree of confidentiality and collaborative spirit.

• Capacity to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Physical ability to lift 30-40 lbs. and engage actively with children.

Special Requirements

• Enrollment in the Central Background Registry (CBR) through DELC is mandatory.

• Familiarity with the State of Oregon licensing rules and requirements.

• Montessori Assistant Teacher Training Certificate or commitment to obtain training.

• Completion of required safety training within specified timelines (e.g., First Aid, CPR, Food Handler’s Card).

• Application to Oregon Center for Career Development’s Oregon Registry Online database within 30 days of hire.

• Adherence to all state and school compliance regulations, including ongoing professional development.

Please send your resume to andrea.oneill@portlandmontessori.org

expires 10.2.25

Schedule:
Weekdays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., with occasional evening and weekend commitments

Status:
Full-time, Benefit-eligible (medical, dental, vision, flexible spending, and more)

About the Role
Childpeace Montessori School is seeking an experienced AMI-trained Toddler Guide to open a classroom of approximately 12 toddlers, supported by two Classroom Assistants. This role is part of our Toddler Community Program which includes three Toddler Communities, an Aftercare Program, and an Early Childhood Program Director.

The Toddler Guide will create and maintain a nurturing, developmentally appropriate Montessori environment that fosters independence, respect, and joy in learning for children ages 12 months to three years according to standards set forth by the Association Montessori Internationale.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement and present the complete AMI Assistants to Infancy Montessori curriculum for children from birth to age three.

• Prepare lesson plans, deliver presentations, observe and track each child’s development, and maintain accurate records.

• Support the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth of each child.

• Prepare and maintain an AMI-standard Montessori environment, ensuring order, beauty, and functionality.

• Model care for the environment and guide children in maintaining it.

• Oversee classroom relationships between children and adults, among adults, and set age-appropriate behavioral standards for the children.

• Model and teach self-expression, collaboration, and conflict resolution.

• Supervise, train, and communicate regularly with Classroom Assistants.

• Identify and address learning challenges using inclusive, research-based practices.

• Maintain confidentiality and prepare children for smooth transitions to the Children’s House.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Early Childhood Program Director or Head of School.

Qualifications:

• AMI Diploma for Assistants to Infancy (required)

• Bachelor’s degree (required) or higher; Child Development Associate considered

• Experience with children ages 1 to 3 years (preferred)

• Knowledge of the developmental needs and tendencies of children ages 12 months to three years

• Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills

• Commitment to professional teamwork and building positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues

Requirements:

• Must be enrolled in the Oregon Office of Child Care’s Central Background Registry (CBR) prior to hire.

About Childpeace Montessori School
Childpeace Montessori serves toddlers through adolescents in beautiful, well-prepared environments in Northwest Portland, just three blocks from the Willamette River and near parks, walking trails, and restaurants. Our campus is accessible by bike and public transportation. We value responsibility, educational excellence, a love of learning, sustainability, and equity. We strongly encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences that will enrich our community.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Childpeace Montessori School does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or any other status protected under local, state, or federal laws.

expires 9.14.25