Assistant Teacher

The Montessori Children’s Academy (MCA) is an authentic Montessori school with campuses in Chatham, Florham Park, and Short Hills, NJ. We are currently seeking Assistant Teachers and On-Staff Substitute Assistants to join our incredible team of devoted teachers. Applicants should be loving, nurturing, flexible individuals who are looking for a professional “home” where child-centered education is valued and teamwork is vital.

Experience working with children is essential; experience working in a Montessori school setting is a plus. We are willing to consider Adult Learners who are currently entering their internship year.

MCA currently offers Early Childhood programs for children 2 – 3 ½ years and 2 ½ or 3 – 6 years, as well as Lower Elementary for 6 – 8 years. Work hours vary with a start time of 8:00 or 8:30AM and an end time between 1:30 and 4:00PM. The position will begin on August 31, 2026 for the  school year.

MCA offers a competitive salary, medical benefits (including dental and vision), Aflac benefits, 401K, reduced tuition for employee’s children, Paid Time Off (PTO) in proportion to normal work hours, Continuing Education opportunities, and discounted tuition for Early Childhood certification training for serious candidates.

Assistant Teachers and On-Staff Substitute Assistants work with Head Teachers to maintain engaging, calm, and well-prepared Montessori environments. Both Assistant Teachers and On-Staff Substitute Assistants are involved in classroom preparation, student supervision and support, and the ongoing assistance of the Head Teachers in order to provide for the developmental, social, behavioral, and academic needs of the children specifically, and the school community in general.

• Helping the Head Teacher maintain a Montessori Prepared Environment through preparation of materials, assistance with classroom set-up/ongoing care/end-of-year breakdown, etc.
• Supervising and supporting students while fostering independence, self-confidence, and responsibility
• Modeling positivity, grace, and courtesy, both in and out of the classroom
• Communicating effectively with the Head Teacher in order to support students in their individualized learning
• Assisting with daily routines such as snack preparation, classroom organization, general classroom upkeep, and light cleaning
• Contributing to weekly team meetings
• Ensuring a safe and orderly environment for all students
• Maintaining professionalism, positivity, confidentiality, and respectful communication with colleagues and families
• Directing key parental communications to the Head Teacher

• Ability to sit on the floor, use low seating, and move actively throughout the classroom
• Willingness to assist with diapering or toileting accidents if necessary (depending on the program and ages of the children)
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions during recess and other school activities
• Ability to lift and move classroom materials and furniture (with assistance as needed)

• Maintain professional appearance appropriate for a school setting and adhere to the school dress code
• Be punctual and reliable in attendance
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality as it relates to both school and personal matters
• Engage in ongoing personal and professional growth

• Alignment with Montessori philosophy and values
• Strong communication skills
• Commitment to at least 12 hours of approved Continuing Education per school year
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Successful completion of CARI and fingerprinting background checks
• Contributing to a professional and respectful faculty culture

Please email Bernadette Fasolas at bfasolas for more information and to schedule an interview.