Spark Studio Guide - Acton Academy West Austin
Join Our Team of Hero-Makers at Acton Academy West Austin!
Are you passionate about nurturing the natural curiosity of young learners? Do you believe that play is the important work of children? Acton Academy West Austin, an innovative learner-driven school, is seeking a Spark Studio Guide to join our mission of empowering children to find their calling and change the world.
About Our Spark Studio
Our Spark Studio serves learners ages 4-6 in a vibrant, multi-age environment where children learn through play, exploration, and discovery. We believe in honoring each child's developmental timeline.
What Makes This Role Special
As a Spark Studio Guide, you won't be a traditional teacher. You'll be a gamemaker who creates exciting challenges, sets loving boundaries, and guides young heroes on their learning journey. You'll work in an environment that values freedom, responsibility, and the unique gifts of every child.
What We're Looking For
Essential Experience:
- Background in Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or other mixed-age educational approaches
- Experience with the Waseca reading program (or willingness to be trained)
- Demonstrated ability to work with children ages 4-6 in a self-directed learning environment
Your Superpowers Should Include:
- A deep belief that children are capable, curious, and naturally driven to learn
- Experience creating rich, play-based learning environments
- Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate expectations
- Ability to guide without rescuing - letting children learn from natural consequences
- Excellent communication skills with both children and families
- A growth mindset and love of continuous learning
What You'll Do
- Create and facilitate engaging quests and challenges that make learning irresistible
- Guide young heroes in developing independence, problem-solving skills, and character
- Support learners through our comprehensive reading program using Waseca materials
- Partner with families to celebrate each child's unique hero's journey
- Maintain a beautiful, prepared environment that invites exploration and discovery
- Use Socratic questioning to deepen children's thinking and curiosity
What We Offer
- The opportunity to work in an innovative educational model that truly makes a difference
- A supportive community of families and colleagues who share your values
- Professional development and growth opportunities within the Acton network
- Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
- The joy of watching young heroes discover their gifts and develop confidence
Our Core Beliefs
- Each child has a unique gift that can change the world
- Learning to be, learning to learn, and learning to do are equally important
- Play is the important work of children
- Character development happens through loving boundaries and natural consequences
- Parents are the primary educators; we support and complement their efforts
Ready to Join Our Adventure?
If you're excited about being part of a learning community where children develop into confident, kind, and creative individuals ready to make their mark on the world, we'd love to hear from you!
To Apply:
1. Please submit your resume along with a cover letter sharing why you're passionate about child-led learning and how your experience aligns with our mission. Submit to [email protected].
2. Follow the instructions in this document:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Io4ieoBn5GOhcqDFQKuR-sywIpdyBpiZgBe8u3wfItc/edit?tab=t.0
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $45,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- Working with pre-1st grade students: 1 year (Required)
- Prek-1st: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
