Catskill Montessori School (CMS) is seeking a warm, dedicated Toddler Lead Guide to join our Montessori community in Catskill, NY. This position is currently part-time, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, with the possibility of expanding to a full-time role for the right candidate. We are open to discussing scheduling and opportunities for additional responsibilities.

Located on a beautiful 63-acre campus in the Hudson Valley, CMS offers an authentic Montessori education rooted in independence, meaningful work, connection to nature, and land stewardship.

The Toddler Lead Guide is responsible for preparing and maintaining a nurturing, engaging Montessori environment for children ages 18–36 months that supports each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Responsibilities include guiding daily classroom activities, supporting independence and practical life skills, collaborating with classroom assistants and school leadership, and building strong, supportive relationships with families.

Outdoor exploration and nature-based learning are integral to our program, and we seek an educator who embraces the outdoors as an extension of the classroom.

AMI or AMS Montessori Infant/Toddler (0–3) certification strongly preferred.

Experience working with children ages 18–36 months in a Montessori or early childhood setting.

Strong understanding of Montessori philosophy, child development, and the prepared environment.

Ability to create a peaceful, nurturing classroom that fosters independence, confidence, and curiosity.

Experience leading a classroom and collaborating effectively with assistants and colleagues.

Strong communication skills and a commitment to building positive relationships with children and families.

Enthusiasm for outdoor education, nature-based learning, and land stewardship in all seasons.

Warm, patient, dependable, flexible, and committed to professional growth.

Commitment to supporting the whole child and honoring each child's individual developmental journey.

Catskill Montessori School (CMS) is a close-knit, inclusive Montessori community nestled on a beautiful 63-acre campus in the Hudson Valley. Rooted in the principles of authentic Montessori education and the permaculture ethics of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share, we strive to nurture compassionate, independent learners who develop a deep respect for themselves, others, and the natural world.

At CMS, we believe that diversity strengthens our community and that every child, family, and educator deserves to feel welcomed, respected, valued, and supported. We embrace and celebrate differences in race, ethnicity, culture, spiritual beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation, family structure, socioeconomic background, and lived experiences. We are committed to fostering an antiracist, equitable, and gender-inclusive environment through ongoing reflection, education, and meaningful action.

Our school community is built on mutual respect, collaboration, compassion, and a shared responsibility to care for one another and the world around us. Our classrooms extend beyond four walls, with outdoor exploration, farming, and land stewardship woven into daily life.

We welcome educators who share these values and are excited to contribute to a school community where children and adults alike can learn, grow, and belong. We strongly encourage candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds and diverse identities to apply.