Elementary Montessori Guide-Teacher (Grades 1-3)

• Reports To: Principal
• Location: Acton Academy Calgary Central

Position Summary

Are you passionate about inspiring young minds? Do you dream of shaping the foundation of an innovative school as a founding educator? Acton Academy Calgary Central (AACC) is seeking a dedicated Elementary Teacher to lead a Grades 1-3 classroom in a learner-driven, innovative educational environment. As a founding educator, you will play a pivotal role in shaping a start-up school that emphasizes guiding over traditional teaching.

In this role, you will foster a community where students take ownership of their learning, develop independence, and cultivate a lifelong love for knowledge. Your responsibilities will include aligning learning experiences with Alberta’s curriculum while creating an engaging, respectful, and joyful environment that encourages academic excellence and personal growth. This is a unique opportunity to inspire young minds and co-create a transformative educational experience.

Purpose

The Elementary Guide's primary purpose is to facilitate students' learning and development by delivering curriculum in a developmentally appropriate manner. This role ensures that instruction fosters engagement, critical thinking, and a love for learning while adhering to the legal obligations and responsibilities outlined in the School Act, Acton Academy’s principles, the provincial curriculum, and the Teaching Professional Code of Conduct.

Key Responsibilities
Guide Responsibilities
• Facilitate a learner-driven environment that empowers children to explore, think critically, and grow independently.
• Inspire and equip learners to develop independence, self-management, and a love for lifelong learning.
• Use Socratic methods to foster curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Model a growth mindset and maintain a positive, respectful studio culture.
• Uphold studio guardrails to ensure a safe and thriving learning environment.
• Prepare and maintain an organized and inviting classroom environment that supports focused learning and adheres to Alberta's curriculum standards.
• Make learning relevant and fun to learners!

Focused Learning Practices

• Integrate Alberta curriculum standards into a learner-driven model that emphasizes academic rigor and creativity.
• Employ hands-on, experiential methods to educate leaners in foundational subjects, including literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
• Implement interdisciplinary projects connecting curriculum objectives with real-life applications, supported by provided tools and resources.
• Foster independence and accountability through self-paced work, goal setting, and personalized learning plans.
• Monitor and assess progress, providing actionable feedback to ensure students exceed grade-level expectations.

Child Development and Support
• Observe and address students' academic, social, and emotional needs, offering individualized support.
• Guide conflict resolution and promote social-emotional growth through restorative practices.
• Partner with families to support each student’s developmental journey and create a sense of belonging.

Operational Responsibilities
• Design and implement schedules (daily, weekly, and 6-week sprints) balancing individual, group, and creative activities.
• Maintain accurate student records and provide progress updates to families.
• Ensure compliance with Alberta Education standards and Acton Academy’s learner-driven mission.
• Collaborate with the Principal and staff to align with AACC’s goals, values, and vision.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
• Valid Alberta Teaching Certificate (Interim or Permanent Professional Certificate).
• Trained in Montessori or Reggio-Emilia principles.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Alberta’s curriculum and standards for Grades 1-3.
• Proven experience working with elementary-aged children, preferably in an innovative or learner-driven educational setting.
• Familiarity with Acton Academy’s philosophy and guide practices (preferred).
• Background in coaching, entrepreneurial pursuits, or relevant certifications is an asset.
• Knowledge of human behavior, individual differences in ability, personality, and interest, as well as principles of learning and motivation is an asset.

Skills and Attributes

• Inspirational guide with a profound respect for children’s abilities and potential.
• Dedicated to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and joyful learning environment.
• Adaptable, patient, and responsive to each child’s unique learning journey and needs.
• Highly observant, with the ability to identify and effectively address individual learner needs.
• Exceptional communication skills for engaging with children, families, and colleagues.
• Proactive planner with strong organizational skills to design and manage learning experiences and classroom activities on daily, weekly, monthly, and annual bases.
• Proficient in creating and maintaining a purposeful, structured, and engaging learning environment.
• Skilled in utilizing digital tools to track and maintain accurate records of student progress.
• Strong work ethic with a self-starter mindset and excellent time management to support professional growth.
• Capable of articulating clear, coherent, and meaningful educational objectives.

Key Terms of Employment
• Reports directly to the Principal.
• Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications, including Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund (ATRF) contributions.
• Adheres to Alberta labour laws and standards for early childhood education.

How to Apply: If you are ready to inspire and guide young learners on their educational journey, we invite you to apply. Please submit your cover letter and resume via email to [email protected]. For additional information about Acton Academy Calgary Central, visit our website at www.ActonCentral.org.