Wild Fern Montessori School is a small, mission-driven nonprofit in Richmond, Virginia, committed to authentic Montessori education, financial equity, and a strong community.

We are seeking a passionate Primary Lead Teacher for children ages 3–6 beginning late July 2026. AMI certification is strongly preferred; AMS will be considered. This is a full-time, Monday–Friday position located in the Lakeside/Brook Road corridor, with compensation of $38,000–$46,000, depending on certification and experience.

Wild Fern is rooted in AMI principles, the three-year cycle, the prepared environment, and meaningful parent partnership. Through our Sliding Scale Tuition Program and subsidy provider status, we work to make Montessori accessible to more families.

The Primary Lead Teacher will prepare and maintain an authentic Montessori classroom, plan and present lessons, observe and document student progress, guide classroom assistants, communicate regularly with families, lead conferences, and participate in staff meetings, professional development, school events, open houses, and fundraisers.

Qualified candidates will have AMI or AMS Montessori certification for ages 3–6, a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, at least one year of Montessori classroom experience, strong communication skills, experience working with diverse families, and the ability to lead assistants with care and professionalism. Experience in a small nonprofit school and familiarity with Montessori Compass are highly valued.

Benefits include 401(k) with Safe Harbor match, school-supported professional development, paid time off, paid holidays and breaks, 30% family tuition discount, bereavement leave, potential annual bonus, direct collaboration with the Head of School, and a meaningful voice in school planning.

Pre-hire requirements include a current TB test, background checks, fingerprinting, First Aid/CPR certification, and proof of Montessori certification or current standing.

To apply, please send your resume, brief cover letter, and proof of Montessori certification to Kate Lipka, Head of School, at kate@wildfernmont.org.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Wild Fern Montessori School is an equal opportunity employer.

Required

• AMI or AMS Montessori certification for ages 3–6; AMI strongly preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• At least 1 year of Montessori classroom experience
• Experience managing assistants and navigating the needs of a working Primary classroom
• Strong communication skills with children, families, and colleagues
• Experience working with diverse students and families
• Ability to lead, mentor, and hold classroom assistants accountable with care and professionalism

Highly Valued

• Experience in a small nonprofit school environment
• Commitment to parent engagement and community outreach
• Familiarity with Montessori Compass or a similar documentation platform

Ideal Mindset

• Calm, consistent, and reliable
• Growth-oriented and solution-focused
• Collaborative team player
• Deeply committed to Montessori as a philosophy
• Honest, direct, reflective, and open to feedback