Lower School Associate Teacher

Job Title: Lower School Associate Teacher

Department: Lower School

Reports To: Lower School Director

FLSA Status: Exempt

On-Site: 100%

Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 100%

Compensation: $47,000

You find joy in working with students and alongside a passionate, thoughtful community of educators. You believe learning is most powerful when it is experiential, and when students learn by doing, exploring, and reflecting, rather than simply being told what to know and remember. You are invested in the growth of children as whole people, supporting their curiosity, sense of purpose, and capacity to contribute meaningfully to their communities, both within and beyond the classroom.

You are a lifelong learner who welcomes both support and challenge, and you are excited by the opportunity to continue developing your craft in a collegial, reflective environment. You are energized by contributing your skills and ideas, making a meaningful impact, and being part of something larger than yourself.

Founded in 1924 and located in Seattle’s Madison Valley neighborhood, The Bush School is an independent school serving students from Kindergarten through Twelfth Grade. The curriculum is grounded in experiential learning, designed to spark students of diverse backgrounds and talents with a passion for learning, accomplishment, and contribution to their communities. The school fosters an inclusive and diverse community in which every individual feels they belong.

The Lower School Associate Teacher reports to the Lower School Division Director while working in collaboration with the Lower School Lead Teachers in the classroom and grade level assigned. This position primarily supports the students of the assigned classroom and grade level but must be willing and qualified to offer support and assistance to other lower school grade levels when needed.

• Partner with Lower School Lead Teachers on daily lessons, class preparation, classroom management, student assessments, and related teaching tasks.
• Create and sustain classroom culture based on the school’s mission and values.
• Collaborate and work effectively in teams with colleagues.
• Prepare and deliver instructional activities that emphasize experiential learning experiences.
• Differentiate instructional resources and methods to meet students’ varying needs.
• Value and incorporate diverse perspectives in daily interactions and in the curriculum.
• Work closely with students to foster growth in academics and social‑emotional learning, under the guidance of the lead teacher(s).
• Lead small group lessons to enhance or complement large lessons.
• Create and maintain a positive and welcoming climate in the classroom.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with students.
• Show support and understanding of the Bush School Mission and Philosophy through professional conduct and practice.
• Attend meetings and in‑service opportunities when scheduled.
• Participate in bi‑weekly Associate Teacher meetings.
• Support K‑5 recess and lunch supervision.
• Other lower school responsibilities and duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Teaching certification, equivalent training, or enrollment in a teaching training program preferred.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion required.
• Experience teaching and/or working with lower school age children in a school setting required.

• Philosophy that aligns with the school’s mission and values.
• Strong commitment to being a positive educator.
• Willingness to participate in professional development.
• Proficiency in data management and computer skills with a willingness to explore and employ new and innovative technologies.
• Collaborative and thrives in team‑focused environments.
• Comfortable working with Lower School students of all ages.
• Clear and effective communication, including with administrators, faculty, staff, students, and parents/guardians.
• Timely and thorough completion of work.
• Patient and positive attitude.

• Current Adult and Children CPR, First Aid and AED Certification (or obtain within a short…