Upper Elementary Guide | Academy of Enlightened Minds

**We’re building the kind of school children deserve.** **This Is Where Children Start Deciding Who They Are.** By ages 9–12, students become highly aware of themselves—and of each other. They compare. They notice who is ahead. They begin protecting how they are seen. **What Was Once Flexible** “I’m still learning this” **Can Become** “I’m just not good at this.” **Students More Consistently** * Avoid work that exposes weakness * Hold back where they feel unsure * Play it safe What may have been occasional earlier becomes more consistent—and begins to shape how students show up. Patterns start to solidify. Most schools miss this. We don’t. **Our school** We are not a typical school. Montessori is our foundation—but not our limit. We focus on how students think, respond to challenge, and see themselves and the world around them. We support the **whole child** —academic, emotional, physical, spiritual, psychological, and social development. **Our Environment Is** * holistic * growth\-focused * community\-driven * built to develop confident, capable, and self\-aware children **Our Program Integrates** * Strong academics * With a dedicated focus on emotional intelligence, mindset development, and belief formation * Holistic health — including movement, nutrition (with whole organic food), overall well\-being, and naturopathic wellness\-informed support * Connection to nature — through outdoor experiences and an environment that extends beyond the classroom * Leadership and real\-world skills We work closely with families—because alignment between home and school matters. The foundation is strong. Now we are raising the standard. **The role** This is not a delivery role. You are responsible for how students respond to challenge, effort, and themselves. A critical part of this role is developing students’ mindset: Not through surface\-level encouragement—you really need to “see” the children. You do this through clear expectations, consistency, and how you intentionally respond in real moments. **Students Should Leave Your Classroom Understanding** * Effort matters * Ability develops * Struggle is part of learning **On a Daily Basis, You Will** * Hold students accountable for effort and follow\-through * Address avoidance directly * Require revision and completion of work * Coach students through discomfort instead of removing it * Manage real peer dynamics and social pressure **You** **Who this is for** * Lead with love and care * Hold high standards * Stay calm under pressure * Address issues directly * Think in real time **You Understand** * Students at this age are sensitive to comparison and judgment * Behavior is often driven by how they interpret challenge * Confidence is built through experience and guidance **This role is not for everyone** **Not a Fit If You** * Avoid difficult conversations * Lower expectations to reduce friction * Prefer highly structured, low\-responsibility environments **Requirements** * Montessori Diploma (AMI/MACTE) * Bachelor of Education (preferred) * First Aid and CPR certification * Vulnerable Sector Check and clean record * Strong verbal and written communication skills * Strong organization, planning, and attention to detail * Ability to lead a classroom independently with professionalism and presence * Strong judgment, problem\-solving, and critical thinking ability * Creative, positive, fun, and empowering * Ability to collaborate openly with a team * Proficient with Microsoft Office and comfortable using digital tools * Quick to learn and adapt to new applications, systems, and technology * Deep understanding of development in ages 9–12 (cognitive, social, emotional, and psychological), and the ability to apply that understanding in real classroom situations * Strong awareness of how students interpret challenge, effort, and social comparison—and ability to respond effectively * Able to intentionally develop students’ mindset—helping them build confidence, resilience, and self\-belief through how challenge and effort are handled * Observant, and able to respond thoughtfully to the needs of the classroom * Able to adapt in real time while maintaining structure and consistency * Genuinely enjoys being with children and guiding their development — not just managing them * Open\-minded and committed to continuous personal and professional growth * A genuine passion for children, development, health, and the outdoors * Background in psychology, coaching, entrepreneurial experience, or relevant certifications is an asset **Successful Candidate Will Be Required To Provide** * References * Copies of certificates of the aforementioned qualifications * A clear vulnerable sector screening * Standard First Aid/CPR certification, or proof of enrollment in course **If this resonates** **Send Your Resume To** Contact: Adrian Email: careers@academyofenlightenedminds.com Location: High Park/Roncesvalles Website: www.enlightenedminds.ca