The Reading Specialist at RMS is responsible for developing and delivering a multi-age, developmentally appropriate language curriculum rooted in Montessori principles and OG practices for emerging and early readers. This role fosters creativity, self-expression, and an appreciation for artistic traditions while supporting each child's individual growth. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of Montessori education by valuing observation, respecting individual learners, incorporating choice, preparing an engaging environment, and fostering independence and intrinsic motivation in students.

In this role, you will:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver language lessons and opportunities for elementary students.

• Develop curriculum and modify Montessori materials to make them accessible to emerging and early readers.

• Support the classroom teachers in developing their skills to instruct and guide emergent and early readers.

• Support the developmental social-emotional needs of each student as necessary and with the aid of appropriate support personnel.

• Create a positive environment in which all students feel known and valued

• Collaborate with colleagues to design meaningful learning experiences and support one another

• Participate in level and faculty meetings and professional development meetings, including the Summer Institute, if assigned

• Assess student progress using formal and informal data collection tools and methods aligned with Montessori practices and provide feedback in a timely manner

• Support student social development and behavior in alignment with Positive Discipline guidelines

• Foster communication and a respectful partnership with parents/guardians in conferences, during phone calls, and through written correspondence

• Communicate in a timely and efficient manner with parents, students, and colleagues

• Engage in continuing professional growth and development practices

• Participate in the life of the school through committee work and regular presence at major events as a means of supporting the students and the mission of the school

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time at the discretion of the Head of School.

We seek people with: 

• Bachelor’s degree required, a degree in education preferred.
• Certified training in reading instruction
• 3-5 years of teaching experience preferred, ideally in a Montessori education setting.
• Strong classroom management skills that align with Montessori values.
• A passion for nurturing creativity and guiding students through process-based artistic exploration.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as reflected in RMS’s mission.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• An agile, growth mindset with a collaborative, solution-oriented approach.
• Comfort using technology for communication and instruction, including Google tools and student information systems.

Position Classification: 10 month, faculty, non-exempt, full-time position
Reports to: Director of Elementary Education
Position begins: August 13th, 2025

About Richmond Montessori School

Founded in 1965, Richmond Montessori School is the only Montessori school in the Richmond area and surrounding counties that is fully accredited by two external organizations – the American Montessori Society and Virginia Association of Independent Schools. RMS offers a private education that prepares children (ages 18 months to 14) for high levels of academic achievement, while also supporting their unique styles, interests and talents. The result is students who have the self-confidence, motivation and sense of purpose to successfully navigate life and contribute to their world in a meaningful way.

Connections working at Richmond Montessori School