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Guidepost Montessori

Engaged Employer

Working for them was an absolutely miserable experience - Lead Guide Guidepost Montessori Employee Review

1.0
Mar 5, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Getting to design my own classroom was nice. They have nice culture and values on paper, but terrible execution.

Cons

Corporate micromanagement, too much focus on bottom-line and not enough care for the kids or their wellbeing. We were actively instructed to deceive DCFS when they came for inspections, rolling in carts of phony classroom items and moving furniture that was blocking fire exits. Ratios were often out of balance, there wasn't enough staff coverage. They give underqualified people too much responsibility. They misrepresented the job during interviews and changed terms after work started (I was told I could leave when my work for the day was finished, but later they backtracked and insisted I stay until 4 even if I had nothing left to do). Within the first 6 months the school was open, staff turnover was close to 75% because of poor management from corporate and shady hiring choices. Corporate oversight created a "big-brother" environment and toxic culture. I was embarrassed to be part of the culture and ultimately left because my conscience couldn't bear being part of this machine.

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Guidepost Montessori Response
6y
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, and for your efforts in setting up your new classroom. We are proud of our values and culture but know that it will only come to life through our employees. We recognize that the first six months of opening a school can be the most challenging work experience of anyone’s career. This is a crucial time of not only building the community and culture but also working through the challenges of schedules and staffing needs. While we do share a typical schedule in the interview, we also stress the flexibility required in the first year and the dedication needed to support new assistants and the overall team. We have a good partnership with DCFS and build strong relationships with their representatives to hold ourselves to a high standard. We also strive to have each school be its own community without relying on corporate management. This, of course, can change when we hear from our employees that the work culture is toxic or a new school is particularly struggling. We hope that you provided feedback to the School Support team during your time to share your concerns and make the culture and school that you were so excited about. We wish you the best of luck in your career and hope that you revisit the school in the coming months to see it normalized.

Explore other reviews about Guidepost Montessori

5.0
Mar 26, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I have been with Guidepost for almost four years, and I am extremely happy in my role as a Children’s House Lead Guide. I truly couldn’t ask for a better position. The work environment is very positive, and I am surrounded by kind, supportive colleagues. The leadership is exceptional—our Head of School is an amazing, understanding, and uplifting person who creates a culture where everyone feels valued we feel supported and I’ve learn so many new skills. Even in last-minute or challenging situations, she responds with positivity and grace. I feel very supported and appreciated every day.

Cons

There are very few downsides to mention. Like any workplace, occasional last-minute situations can arise, but they are handled very well by head of school.

5.0
Mar 15, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I’ve been at Guidepost for four years, and it has truly been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. Watching each child grow, gain confidence, and thrive is a joy I never take for granted. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t wholeheartedly believe in the work we do. The safety and wellbeing of every child is at the center of our mission, and I wouldn’t recommend this school if I didn’t fully trust that each child is cared for with genuine respect, compassion, and intention. Beyond the incredible environment we create for our children, the team here is something special. We support, trust, and genuinely care about one another. I couldn’t write this review without mentioning our admin team. They have created a culture of care, respect, and trust with the staff. They guide us, encourages us, and continually helps us grow. Working at Guidepost has been a magical experience.

Cons

Honestly, there’s not much that I would deem a “con”

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