Assistant Teacher

Position Title: Assistant Teacher

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position

Purpose:

The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in creating and maintaining an authentic Montessori learning environment that promotes student independence, engagement, and growth. The Assistant plays a critical role in sustaining the prepared environment, supporting students during the work cycle, and ensuring smooth classroom operations aligned to Montessori principles.

Core Responsibilities:

• Support the maintenance of a prepared environment that is orderly, clean, complete, and accessible to students
• Ensure materials are organized, complete, and ready for student use at all times
• Reinforce classroom norms that support independence, concentration, and respect
• Protect the integrity of the uninterrupted work cycle by minimizing unnecessary interruptions
• Support students in using Montessori materials appropriately and independently

• Observe students and provide targeted academic, behavioral, and language support during independent and small-group work under the direction of the Lead Teacher.
• Encourage student independence by guiding rather than directing or over-helping
• Support students with behavior, redirection, and problem-solving in alignment with Montessori principles
• Supervise students during transitions, lunch, recess, arrival, and dismissal
• Share observations about student needs and progress with the Lead Teacher

• Support lesson follow-up and reinforcement as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Work with individuals or small groups to reinforce previously taught concepts
• Assist in preparing materials and activities that support student learning
• Implement accommodations and supports for students as directed (IEPs, 504s, interventions)

• Maintain classroom organization, including materials, student work, and shared spaces
• Support smooth daily routines and transitions
• Assist with classroom setup, cleanup, and preparation
• Ensure student safety, including awareness of health and allergy needs
• Support record-keeping or classroom systems as directed by the Lead Teacher

• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher and other instructional support staff, including special education and English Learner staff, to support student success.
• Participate in meetings, coaching, and professional development as required
• Communicate professionally with colleagues, students, and families (as appropriate)
• Seek feedback and demonstrate willingness to grow in Montessori practice
• Uphold all school policies and procedures

Essential Functions

The essential functions of the Assistant Teacher position include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting implementation of an authentic Montessori classroom under the direction of the Lead Teacher
• Maintaining the prepared environment and classroom materials
• Supervising students in classrooms and throughout the school environment
• Supporting students' academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and developmental needs
• Reinforcing lessons and instructional activities with individuals and small groups
• Implementing accommodations and supports as directed, including instructional supports for English Learners and students with disabilities
• Building positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Performing duties requiring frequent movement throughout classrooms and school facilities
• Regular and reliable attendance

Performance Expectations: Performance will be evaluated based on:

• Prepared environment is consistently maintained
• Materials are complete, organized, and accessible

• Students are supported while maintaining independence
• Effective supervision and behavior support

• Strong partnership with Lead Teacher
• Responsiveness to feedback and coaching

Qualifications:

• Experience working with children (required)
• Montessori training or coursework preferred (or willingness to pursue)
• High school diploma required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Demonstrated ability…