Early Childhood Assistant Teacher

Job Title: Early Childhood Assistant Teacher

Job Assignment:

The Assistant Teacher works in the Toddler or Nido environment with a Lead Teacher and up to ten children. Assists Lead Teacher during work cycle, redirecting children to work and aiding children who need support. Works with Lead Teacher to prepare environment daily. Maintains order and cleanliness of environment daily. Substitutes for Lead Teacher in cases of illness or absence.

Essential Characteristics:

As an Assistant Teacher, one has to be especially patient and compassionate. Under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, it is the Assistant Teacher’s job to meet the child’s needs physically, socially and emotionally. Maintaining an open, loving and cooperative environment for children is all part of the job of the Assistant Teacher. The Assistant Teacher has to have an inherent love for this stage of development, and the ability to assist the students with their most personal needs such as toileting, washing, and dressing. The Assistant Teacher must possess the ability to support the Lead Teacher in implementing lessons to meet the varying needs of the students. Candidates who have a degree and experience working in Early Childhood Education are most often considered for this position.

Consistent attendance is important to the students and the functioning of the classroom. The Assistant Teacher is expected to follow MAC’s policies regarding absences and to schedule optional activities so as to minimize disruption to the classroom.

Responsibilities that are required in an Assistant Teacher role:

• Maintain the prepared environment by implementing the Montessori curriculum according to the specifics provided by the school and lead teacher.
• Follow lesson plans created by the lead teacher; engage with the students during the work cycle to meet the needs of each child enrolled in the classroom.
• Give lessons as directed by lead teacher on a one-on-one or group basis and assist children who may have trouble grasping concepts.
• Communicate professionally with the parents, discussing their child's day-to-day interactions with the materials, peers, and adults.
• Communicate with the children using language and tone of voice that is authentic, natural and, most importantly, kind.
• Promote feelings of security and trust in children by encouraging and supporting them when necessary through activities and practical life skills.
• Seek balance when supporting children: avoid over-assisting or abandonment while children are practicing new skills (dressing, putting on shoes, face washing, nose wiping, etc.). Remember the credo should be “help me help myself to learn to do it well.” Ensure that children are clean and well cared for regarding toileting, eating, handwashing, and mucus.
• Respond quickly and in a soothing fashion to distressed children and ensure that they are comforted immediately.
• Follow the children and the energy of the classroom to determine the needs of the students.
• Oversee and engage children during recess time; ensure that activities are stimulating, age-appropriate, and safe.
• Be available, present, and focused on the children during daily transitions (i.e., work cycle, walks, recess, lunch, and naps).
• Perform cleaning and maintenance necessary to keep the classroom and common spaces clean, beautiful, and safe.
• Maintain a positive work environment among all staff that is professional, kind, and inclusive.
• Engage in weekly team meetings by sharing observations and asking questions about child development and how to best support each child.
• Uphold the MAC Characteristics of Excellence daily.

The Montessori Academy of Colorado (MAC) is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive environment, free of discrimination or harassment, for its community. MAC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, immigration/citizen status, age, marital status, pregnancy status, veteran status, disability, socio-economic status, political affiliation, or any other non-merit fact. Any person with a concern or allegation of discrimination or harassment shall report it to MAC’s Compliance Coordinator. More information is available on our website.

Online Application