Lead Guide (Ages 5-7)

About the role

We’re looking for builders who sweat the details. Those who are driven to create something world-class that will impact generations of children. If that might be you, please read on.

Position Description

You will be helping us launch a new studio called Trailhead. It will combine the Acton Academy “Spark” studio philosophy with a heavy dose of outdoor activities (think Danish kindergarten or forest schools).

• Design and execute the daily schedule, which features blocks of “core” time (using Montessori materials), reading time, projects, and outdoor activities.
• The Acton Network provides materials and training to support the execution of core skills, reading, and projects (called quests). The Trailhead guide will review and adapt these (with the help of the school founder).
• The outdoor activities will be mostly designed from scratch by the Trailhead guide; they will also have an opportunity to design the outdoor spaces to support their vision (trail, mud kitchen, sandboxes, etc.)
• Acton provides both on-demand and synchronous virtual training options. The guide is expected to use both to master the Acton Academy systems and mindset.
• Set up the studio environment in a way that establishes clear expectations and ensures that learners are positioned for success.
• Observe children and guide their growth through timely praise and probing questions.
• Guide children in self-governance. As quickly as possible, assign responsibility for the studio and learning to students so they can lead themselves.
• Guide students in setting goals, tracking their progress, and creating portfolios of their work.
• Model being an independent learner and upholding Acton’s promises to students and families.
• Document learner progress (student projects, achievements, and other activities).
• Communicate with parents as necessary (owners have primary responsibility for parent communication).
• Help plan for the program's future, including involvement in selecting and designing the school's new home.

Qualifications

• Has fun and brings joy to the studio. We’re looking for that high-energy type who loves to run and play with a group of 5 to 7-year-olds!
• Is a lifelong learner and is forever curious.
• Thrives in a startup environment.
• Loves to experiment, evaluate, and improve.
• Loves the outdoors and nature (Outward Bound, NOLS, outdoor education, or forest school experience is great!).
• Has experience or is willing to train on the use of Montessori materials.
• Respects all children, understands the difficulties they encounter in their lives, and is devoted to setting compassionate and gentle boundaries.
• Learns quickly and works hard.
• Has proven excellence in written and oral communication skills.
• Is an active reader.
• Is an independent learner who takes direction well but can also work with little direct guidance.
• Is willing to be coached and mentored.
• Has a Bachelor’s degree or higher.

Salary

Maryland Curiosity Lab offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus a performance-based bonus structure (think more like a start-up than a school).