We are a member of Wildflower Montessori Public Schools of Colorado (WMPSC) and will serve students in 1-3rd grade in Aurora, Colorado. The purpose of the Teacher 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. They will specifically support staff with students in all educational environments to meet instructional goals and objectives being a 1:1 support.
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 Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher Assistant works in a Montessori classroom, supporting the Teacher Leader in creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment for children between the ages of 6 and 9 years old. The teacher 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 Teacher Assistant include:
- Supporting Classroom Activities Assist the Lead Teacher in preparing, organizing, and maintaining Montessori materials to ensure they are accessible and engaging for students. Support the implementation of lessons and classroom activities aligned with the Montessori curriculum.
- Supervising Students Provide attentive supervision during classroom work cycles, transitions, outdoor play, and aftercare. Help maintain a safe and supportive environment that encourages independence, responsibility, and respectful behavior. Supervise small groups of students in aftercare while facilitating age-appropriate activities.
- Supporting Individualized Learning Work with individual students or small groups as guided by the Lead Teacher to reinforce lessons and support academic growth. Observe student progress and share relevant insights with the Lead Teacher.
- Classroom Environment & Management Help maintain a calm, orderly, and respectful classroom environment. Guide students in practicing positive behavior, problem-solving, and conflict resolution in alignment with Montessori principles.
- Classroom Preparation & Organization Assist in setting up and maintaining the classroom environment, including arranging materials, preparing workspaces, and ensuring cleanliness and organization throughout the day.
- Professional Growth Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of Montessori philosophy and strengthen instructional practices.
- Floater Support
- Provide flexible classroom support by assisting with staff transitions and coverage during breaks. Ensure continuity of care and supervision while maintaining compliance with CDE licensing requirements, including appropriate staff-to-student ratios at all times.
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Job Qualifications:
Montessori Mindset: Familiarity with the Montessori method or willing to learn more to acclimate to the classroom environment.
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.
Required:
- High school diploma or GED, Bachelor Degree preferred
- Native-like fluency in English, both spoken and written.
- Previous experience working with young children.
Preferred:
- Previous experience as a Montessori/Elementary assistant.
- Previous experience as a para professional
- CPI trained (or willing to acquire training)
- 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.
Physical Requirements:
Candidates must be able to sit, stand, bend, reach, occasionally climb on stools, navigate stairs, and lift up to 20 lbs
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person