Montessori Teacher Assistant

Position Summary: Montessori Teacher Assistant

Cactus Bloom Community School

We are a member of Wildflower Montessori Public Schools of Colorado (WMPSC) and serve students in PK-5th grade in Grand Junction, Colorado.  

The purpose of the Assistant position is to support the instructional and administrative work of the Teacher Leaders in meeting the needs of students in service of growing and sustaining a peaceful, productive school community. 

Our Mission 

The mission of Wildflower Montessori Public Schools of Colorado (WMPSC) is to provide families with child-centered, authentic Montessori education that bridges academic outcomes and social-emotional development through intimate learning communities deeply rooted in place, equity, and belonging. 

A Montessori assistant works in a Montessori classroom, supporting the Teacher Leader in creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment for children between the ages 6-10 in the lower elementary classroom and 3-6 in the primary classroom. The assistant plays a vital role in implementing the Montessori philosophy and helping children develop independence, social skills, and a love for learning. Some of the primary responsibilities of a Montessori assistant include:

• -Supporting Classroom Activities: Assisting the Teacher Leader in preparing and maintaining the Montessori materials and activities, ensuring they are accessible and organized for the children. Collaborating with the Teacher Leader to plan and implement lessons and activities based on the Montessori curriculum.
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• -Supervising Children: Monitoring and supervising children during classroom activities, outdoor play, and transitions. Ensuring their safety and well-being while promoting independence and self-discipline.  Supervising a small group of children in aftercare and facilitating age-appropriate activities.
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• -Individualized Instruction: Providing individual or small group instruction to children as directed by the Teacher Leader. Observing and assessing children's progress and documenting their achievements.
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• -Classroom Management: Assisting in maintaining a calm and orderly classroom environment. Encouraging positive behavior and conflict resolution among the children.
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• -Classroom Preparation: Assisting in preparing the classroom environment, including arranging furniture, setting up learning materials, and maintaining cleanliness and organization.
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• -Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing professional development opportunities to deepen understanding of the Montessori philosophy and enhance teaching practices.

Job Qualifications:

Montessori Training: Willingness to complete a recognized Montessori assistant training program is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Montessori philosophy and methodology is essential.

Experience and Education: Prior experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting is preferred. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, although Montessori training is preferred for candidates, and/or a college degree in early childhood education or a related field.

Patience and Empathy: Possessing a genuine love for working with young children and an understanding of their developmental needs. Demonstrating patience, kindness, and empathy in supporting their learning and emotional well-being.

Communication Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with the Teacher Leader, parents, and other staff members. Ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with young children.

Adaptability and Flexibility: Being adaptable to the unique needs and dynamics of each Montessori classroom. Flexibility in assisting with various tasks and responsibilities as directed by the Teacher Leader.

Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills to help maintain an orderly and prepared Montessori environment. Attention to detail in arranging materials and keeping the classroom clean and organized.

Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively with the Teacher Leader and other assistants to create a harmonious and effective teaching team. Willingness to contribute ideas and actively participate in the growth and development of the classroom community.

Qualifications/Individual Education and Experience:

Required:

• High school diploma or GED
• Native-like fluency in English, both spoken and written.
• Previous experience working with children.

Preferred:

• Previous experience with Montessori and/or public school setting
• Comfortable using technology, including working on a Chromebook or laptop and using phone apps for communication.

Working Conditions:

This position requires regular movement within the classroom and building, which may include climbing stairs, getting up and down from the floor, walking on uneven surfaces (playground), and sitting or standing for extended periods. Occasionally, there may be a need to be outside for a short period of time in inclement weather. Flexibility is required to attend occasional events on evenings and/or weekends throughout the year in support of the community.

Physical Requirements:

Candidates must be able to sit, stand, bend, reach, occasionally climb on stools, navigate stairs, and lift up to 20 lbs

Salary

$18-22/hour based on experience

Hours:

• 35-40 hours/week Monday-Friday between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Application:

To apply, send an email with the subject line: Assistant Teacher Position to emma@cactusbloommontessori.org. 

Include your resume and a cover letter describing why you are interested in the position and what qualities you bring to your work. Cactus Bloom Community School will endeavor to review and update job descriptions annually

Wildflower Montessori Public Schools of Colorado shall not discriminate, on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, creed, religion, sex or gender, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, or in any other way based on personal identity markers that do not relate to the capacity of an individual person to carry out the responsibilities of a role.