Application Process
This guide generally outlines the process that prospective candidates go through as we each decide if working at MSM will be a good fit for you. We are only interested in candidates that are excited to be part of the MSM community and vision. We know that a professional career at MSM is rewarding and fruitful.
Initial Contact
If you are interested in exploring the possibilities of a career at MSM, we encourage you to begin by reaching out via email with your resume and cover letter.
Preliminary Interview
Next, the school director will get in touch to set up a preliminary interview. She will introduce the school, our values, and our programs before sitting down to discuss your experience and future goals. This serves as an opportunity for each of us to get to know each other. Please come with any questions you may have about Montessori and MSM.
Observations
You will be invited back to MSM while school is in session to observe each of our classrooms. We understand that our school serves as the initial introduction to the Montessori method for many of our applicants. Seeing as how Montessori schools are so unlike traditional schools and require a much different teaching approach, we want to ensure that candidates see the workings of a Montessori classroom for themselves. This is one of the best ways to determine if Montessori would be a good fit for you. Please be sure to adhere to our observation guidelines during your visit. After your observation, you have the opportunity to speak with the directress of each program.
References
Following your observation, you will be asked to provide MSM with a series of references—both professional and personal. Please inform your references that they can expect a call from MSM within the coming week. We look forward to hearing how you’ve made an impact on your immediate community both in and outside of work.
Follow Up Interviews
Following your observation, you will meet again with the school director to discuss your observations and determine which MSM program would be the best fit for you. Afterwards, you will be invited to informally interview with the teachers in that program. This is a chance for you to bring up any questions about the program’s age group, responsibilities, and routines. If needed, the school director may schedule an additional final interview with you.
Offer of Employment
Should you and MSM decide to move forward in the hiring process, you will receive a formal offer of employment from the MSM office via email. The offer will generally include the proposed employment position/job title, general hours, pay rate, and proposed start date. Please review the offer and return a signed copy at your earliest convenience.
Welcome Package
Upon receiving your signed offer, you will receive a welcome email from the office including our staff manual, a list of DHS required trainings you must take, instructions for completing background checks, and more. Please begin to work through completing these items as we prepare your contract.
Contract
You can expect to receive your formal employment contract prior to being in the classroom. Please be sure to review it and return a signed copy to the school director at your earliest convenience.
Assistant Training Course
All assistant teachers are required to complete a 10-week online Montessori training program to prepare them for being in the classroom. This training may occur in sync with in-class training and the on boarding process. MSM agrees to cover the cost of this training and will require employees to sign a promissory note to that effect.
Please note that this training does not constitute a full or accredited teacher training. We cannot, however, overstate what a crucial tool it is for your professional development and preparation in being a Montessori teacher. It is an incredible resource that will contribute greatly to your own development and greatly benefit your students’ experience. The training moves at an easy pace and is greatly enjoyable!
This 10-week program serves as your Montessori guide as a new Montessori teacher. We encourage teachers to (1) take extensive notes throughout the training, (2) reference the content/your notes frequently during your first few years at MSM, and (3) take full advantage of this training as a HUGE resource. Please view internalizing and applying everything from your training as a major component towards your success in the classroom.
If your training prompts any questions or leaves you confused in regards to any of our Montessori practices, please do not hesitate to bring it up with the school director. Communication begets learning.
In-Class Shadowing and Training
You will be asked to shadow a teacher in your program before you begin to work in the classroom as part of the team. Your practical training is very hands on. During this time, you will get the full feel of our classroom routines, expectations, and rhythms. You are encouraged to take mental and physical notes as need be. This is also an opportunity to begin to familiarize yourself with your new students as you learn about their development and needs.
Review
The school director will informally meet with you following your first day and first week in the classroom to check in how you feel, your progress, and ask about ways to support you. Please bring up any questions or concerns.
End of Probation Period
Following the passing of 90 days at MSM, you will have completed your probationary period. During your probationary period, you will receive lots of informal and formal feedback from both the school director and your class lead. We are excited to see you grow and develop in your abilities as a Montessori teacher. Welcome to MSM!
Formal Accredited Training
When you wish to pursue your formal credentialed Montessori degree, you will meet with the director to discuss next steps and school support. We are happy to see you continue in your path of Montessori exploration and growth.