Meridian Learning seeks an Elementary Lead Guide for Meridian Micro School, a 6–12 mixed-age classroom community in Cincinnati, Ohio.
This role goes beyond traditional teaching—it is an opportunity to guide children through discovery, independence, and meaningful work in a mindful, relationship-centered microschool. You will prepare and maintain an intentional environment, present clear lessons, and model calm, consistent leadership within a small, mission-driven community.
The ideal candidate will:
▪ view teaching as a vocation rooted in preparation, presence, and reflection
▪ bring steadiness, curiosity, and follow-through
▪ understand—or be eager to learn—modern Montessori philosophy in practice
▪ welcome active mentorship and feedback as part of professional growth
▪ collaborate with an assistant and enrichment guides to maintain a prepared environment
▪ engage warmly with families while maintaining clear, professional boundaries within a small community setting
▪ value long-term relationships with students, families, and colleagues
▪ demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills
Outdoor & Nature Leadership
Daily outdoor learning is a core element of Meridian’s program. The Elementary Lead Guide is expected to:
▪ lead a minimum of one full hour outdoors every school day
▪ guide weekly creek exploration experience
▪ treat outdoor time as essential curriculum
▪ maintain consistent outdoor rhythms regardless of pacing in other academic areas
▪ model confidence, preparation, and comfort in outdoor environments
Nature is part of the prepared environment. This role requires physical presence, mobility, and comfort guiding children in natural spaces.
Qualifications
▪ Bachelor’s degree required
▪ Montessori training preferred, though not required. If untrained, completion of Meridian’s partnered nine-month initial training program is a condition of employment (tuition assistance available).
▪ Three-year commitment to the classroom and community
▪ Background check required; CPR and First Aid certification before start
Schedule and Compensation
This position requires on-site presence four days per week, with some weeks extending to five depending on the school calendar. The guide is expected to remain until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with designated classroom preparation and planning time from 2:30 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. Fridays are led by our dedicated Forest Guide twice per month; the Elementary Lead Guide is not required to work on those days unless otherwise arranged.
Starting pay is $23-27/hour, commensurate with experience and previous training. Compensation reflects the support of an in-class assistant and structured planning time during the week.
Please send a letter of introduction and résumé to join@meridian-learning.org.
About Meridian Micro School
Founded in 2016, Meridian Micro School reflects a deep and sustained commitment to whole child well-being and student-led inquiry. Classes combine hands-on learning and community experiences, guided by the Montessori philosophy. We support children in their desire to become mindful stewards of a rapidly changing, interconnected world, and parents in their desire to remain connected, primary learning facilitators in this process.