Lead with Purpose. Teach Through Adventure.

Join a community where children learn through curiosity, connection, and real-world experiences. Help our Sparks students grow in confidence, independence, and a love of learning.

1. About LAKE Academy

LAKE Academy is a small, Montessori-inspired school on nearly 30 acres in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Our 45 students, kindergarten through ninth grade, spend two to three hours outdoors every day, in every season.

They explore wooded trails, build forts, and learn through hands-on work and real adventure.

Our mission is simple: Learn to Think. Learn to Connect. Learn to Lead.

2. The Role

We’re looking for a passionate Montessori educator to lead our Sparks Studio, a mixed-age classroom of approximately 20 children ages 5–7.

As Lead Sparks Guide, you’ll have meaningful ownership of your studio, with support from an additional Guide throughout the day and a collaborative team of specialized educators. You’ll help children develop independence, confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning.

3. What You’ll Do

  • Design and maintain a prepared Montessori environment that builds independence and concentration.

  • Give individual and small-group lessons in reading, writing, language, and math.

  • Observe students, track their progress, and guide each child’s next steps.

  • Use our campus, trails, and fields as an extension of the classroom throughout the year.

  • Model kindness and responsibility while helping children solve problems and build friendships.

  • Partner closely with families through regular communication, conferences, and school events.

4. Qualifications

Required

  • Experience teaching or guiding in a Montessori classroom.

  • Strong understanding of Montessori philosophy and child development.

  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

  • Enthusiasm for outdoor learning in all seasons.

Preferred

  • Montessori Early Childhood (3–6) and/or Lower Elementary (6–9) certification.

  • Lead Guide or lead classroom teacher experience.

  • Minnesota teaching license.

Certification and licensure are not required. Meaningful Montessori experience and a commitment to children matter most to us.

5. Schedule & Benefits

  • Work Schedule

    • Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–3:30 PM during the school year (September–May).

  • Year-Round Position

    • Includes summer planning, workshops, and professional development, with scheduled breaks throughout our session-based calendar.

  • Professional Growth

    • Professional development funding, including assistance with Montessori certification.

  • Compensation & Relocation

    • Competitive compensation based on experience and training. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

Apply Here