Renee and her husband, Dan, made Helena their home in 2010, along with their four children — Roseanna, Connor, Kaitlin, and Gianna. Having grown up in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia, Renee immediately felt a deep connection to Montana’s natural beauty and welcoming community. She and her family love spending time outdoors and exploring Montana’s rich history.
Renee’s journey into education began through 13 wonderful years of homeschooling her children, where she discovered her love for nurturing young learners. She later found a special passion for the Montessori philosophy, working for eight years as a Montessori infant/toddler and early childhood educator. She also spent three years leading the After School Program at Tree House Learning Center in Helena.
In 2022, Renee completed her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education through the Age of Montessori program in Bozeman, earning her MACTE-accredited Montessori certification. After a rewarding internship, she joined the community at Mountainside Montessori, working alongside talented educators and wonderful families.
Founding Growing Sprouts Montessori is the natural next step in Renee’s journey — bringing her deep love for Montessori education and her belief in the power of child-led learning to life. She is passionate about creating a joyful, nurturing environment where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow.
We're Hiring!
Early Childhood Assistant Teacher
We’re looking for a caring and dedicated Early Childhood Assistant Teacher to join our team! This full-time position plays a vital role in supporting the growth, development, and well-being of young children in a nurturing, Montessori-based educational environment.
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
Work Calendar Follows the Helena School District calendar and Summer Programs
- Minimum Requirements: (per Montana child care licensing standards):
- Age & Education: At least 18 years old with a High school diploma or GED
- Must pass a comprehensive background check.
- Required Trainings: (before or within 90 days of hire):
- Infant/Child CPR & First Aid certification
- State-approved Health & Safety Orientation
- Safe Sleep Practices
- Mandated Reporter Training for abuse/neglect
- Emergency Preparedness & Fire Safety
- Ongoing Training:
- Minimum of 16 hours of approved annual professional development
- Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with young children in a group setting (volunteer, practicum, or paid)
- Coursework in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a CDA credential
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to assist with curriculum and classroom routines
- Position Details:
- First day of work is August 20, 2025
- Follows the Helena School District calendar (August–June)
- Paid holidays when HSD is closed
- One week of work required during either Winter Break or Spring Break
- Four weeks of paid time off during summer months
- Benefits:
- 5 paid sick days per school year
- 10 paid personal days per school year
- Compensation:
- Salary: $38,168
- Paid biweekly, year-round (12-month pay schedule)
- To Apply:
- Send resume and a brief cover letter: renee@growingsproutsmt.org
Join us in making a lasting impact on young learners!