Lower Elementary Teacher

About Daycroft School
Daycroft School is an independent Montessori school serving toddlers through grade 6, located in Ann Arbor. Our mission is to empower each student with confidence, compassion, and a lifelong love of learning. Rooted in Montessori philosophy, we foster an inclusive environment where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is nurtured, and character is developed alongside academic excellence.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is central to preparing our students for a global society. We welcome educators who are committed to these values and who seek to engage in a community of lifelong learners.

Montessori Pillars at Daycroft
We are guided by three essential Montessori principles:

• Classrooms are carefully prepared to allow for uninterrupted periods of student-driven exploration and deep engagement.
• Learning is individualized and student-centered, integrating both academic and social-emotional growth.
• Community is at the heart of our work, built upon mutual respect, authentic relationships, and a shared commitment to each students development.

Position Summary
The Lower Elementary Teacher works in close partnership with a highly experienced Montessori teacher to support the academic and social-emotional development of students in a multi-age classroom. This role is ideal for a compassionate, collaborative, and creative educator who values co-teaching, is eager to learn from seasoned Montessori faculty, and is committed to supporting students in a nurturing and intellectually rich environment.

The teacher will lead small-group and individual lessons, co-plan curriculum units, and bring fresh ideas to classroom projects and student engagement strategies. Responsibilities also include supporting classroom management, facilitating transitions, and helping maintain a thoughtful, organized, and inviting classroom space.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the lead teacher in planning and implementing a Montessori curriculum in math, literacy, cultural studies, and science.
• Facilitate small-group instruction and provide one-on-one support to students with a range of learning styles.
• Observe and document student progress to inform instruction and communicate with families as needed.
• Create an engaging and inclusive learning environment that promotes student autonomy and self-regulation.
• Participate in weekly team meetings to plan cross-grade projects, reflect on student progress, and contribute to the growth of the elementary program.
• Provide timely and constructive feedback on student work.
• Participate in lunch, recess, and community activities to build strong relationships with students and colleagues.
• Attend professional development workshops, in-service training, and faculty meetings.

Why Join Daycroft?
At Daycroft, we offer:

• A supportive and inclusive faculty culture grounded in professional collaboration.
• Small class sizes and a deeply engaged parent and school community.
• Competitive compensation and generous benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth in Montessori and progressive education practices.
• A beautiful campus setting that supports indoor and outdoor experiential learning.

Desired Qualifications and Competencies

• A bachelors degree in education or a related field is required.
• Lower Elementary Montessori Certification from a MACTE accredited institution preferred, or a strong interest in pursuing Montessori training.
• A minimum of 1 year of experience teaching or working with elementary-aged children in a school setting.
• Michigan Elementary Teacher Certification is preferred but not required.
• Strong classroom management skills grounded in respect, consistency, and care.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based teaching model and to take initiative when needed.
• An understanding of and commitment to inclusive teaching practices and DEIB work.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• A growth mindset and willingness to reflect, learn, and grow alongside colleagues and students.