Early Childhood Assistant Teacher

Opening Statement

The Housatonic Valley Waldorf School is seeking an Early Childhood Assistant Teacher for the 2026-27 school year. This is a part-time, salaried position. Time required on school premises: 7:45 am to 1:30 pm. Three days or five days per week depending on the program.

HVWS is a Pre‑K through Eighth Grade school, with three Early Childhood classes, Parent‑Child classes, and an active Summer Camp. Specialty classes for First through Eighth Grades include Spanish, Handwork, Eurythmy, Music and Strings. Our Educational Support Group offers therapeutic services to children as needed. After‑School Enrichment activities can include woodwork, painting, circus arts and other classes. The school has a peaceful and joyful atmosphere, with professionally Lazure‑painted classrooms and spacious playgrounds.

Our vibrant and warm community sponsors Anthroposophical study groups, fairs, festivals, handwork groups, and parenting workshops. HVWS was founded in 1989 and is accredited by AWSNA, NCPSA, WECAN, and CAIS. We have more than 35 years of history and are entering an exciting phase of growth and development, with a collaborative faculty and a strong, supportive Board of Trustees. HVWS is part of the Newtown community in the Housatonic River Valley, which is rich in history.

With some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Northeast, there are many forests, nature preserves, farms, lakes and rivers for our students to explore and enjoy. We’re close to New York City, the Berkshire Mountains, and Anthroposophical communities in Spring Valley, NY;
Harlemville, NY; and Great Barrington, MA.

• Support EC Teacher to bring the EC curriculum; be familiar with all daily verses and songs.
• Strive to create reverence and the right inner and outer gestures for the children to imitate.
• Take care to support EC teacher in providing a loving, secure, and healthy environment for the children.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Support EC Teacher in providing a clean and tidy classroom environment.
• Be responsible for classroom snack supplies and daily snack preparation.
• Communicate regularly with EC Teacher regarding student observations.
• Attend all EC parent evenings.
• Attend all Parent Teacher conferences.
• Substitute for EC Teacher when needed.
• Refer to the Early Childhood Handbook regarding cell phone use.

• Genuine love and respect for young children.
• Experience working with children ages 2.5–6 (childcare, preschool, nannying, camps, etc.)
• Ability to model calm presence, clear boundaries, and nurturing guidance.
• Comfort spending significant time outdoors in all seasons.
• Ability to lift/carry up to 40 lbs, manage physical tasks, and engage in floor-level play.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; approachable for students, parents and colleagues.
• Familiarity with supporting children through transitions, social conflicts, and sensory needs.
• Willingness to learn through observation and mentoring.