Elementary Assistant

Position Summary

The Elementary Classroom Assistant will work with a lead teacher in a lower or upper elementary classroom comprised of students aged 6-9 or 9-12. This position requires love, patience, and respect for students. The classroom assistant encourages students' independence and models appropriate manners and behaviors for them. With the lead teacher, the classroom assistant will facilitate a classroom environment designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth following the philosophies of Maria Montessori.

Support Student Learning & Independence

Work collaboratively with the lead teacher to develop and implement a classroom plan to manage student behaviors and increase learning time.

Support classroom management and learning, and model active participation, in Specials classes.

Use positive reinforcement to encourage students to independently resolve conflicts.

When the lead teacher is absent, assume leadership of the classroom and guide substitutes.

Monitor student work plans and learning documents, and work with individual students or small groups to advance and assess learning.

Model and maintain a calm and warm demeanor with students and peers to create a safe space for students and families.

Lead the Maintenance of the Classroom and Learning Materials

Prepare and reset the Montessori classroom environment and curricular materials daily to maximize student learning, including ensuring clean and organized materials and supplies.

Move throughout the classroom during the work period to make sure the classroom environment continues to be clean and inviting.

Maintain inventory of curriculum materials, making note of materials that need to be replenished, repaired, or replaced.

Support children's growing responsibility for classroom maintenance.

Ensure Accurate Data Collection and Record-keeping

Support in collecting written observations and inputting them into an online record-keeping system.

Take note of all student incidents and communicate to the appropriate internal stakeholders.

Discuss observations with the lead teacher and other teaching staff.

Record and report accurate attendance.

Additional Responsibilities

Provide supervision and enriching activities during non-academic times including lunch, recess, and other duties, as assigned.

Participate in and contribute to all family conferencing conversations and mandatory school events.

Attend and contribute to all employee training sessions, supervision meetings, and staff meetings.

Read all organizational and campus-specific communications daily, responding when necessary.

Required Skills/Abilities

Possess some knowledge of elementary student development principles and developmentally appropriate educational practices.

Willingness to learn about Montessori principles and continuously implement its practice.

Ability to joyfully engage children in small and large group settings

Ability to collaborate and communicate with staff, parents, and students positively and constructively.

Excellent organizational skills.

Proficient or willing to learn Google Suite and other software as required for recordkeeping and documentation.

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent.

Previous experience as a teacher or a teacher's assistant is preferred.

Previous Montessori experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the classroom and outdoor spaces.

Must be able to lift up to 45 pounds at a time with little or no assistance.

Must be able to sit and stand on the floor throughout the day, and bend, kneel, or squat to be at eye level with children.