We are a member of Wildflower Montessori Public Schools of Colorado (WMPSC) and will serves students in 1-3rd grade in Aurora, Colorado. The purpose of the Paraprofessional/ 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
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 of 6 and 9 years old. The paraprofessional 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 paraprofessional include:
- 1. Assists students including students with special needs in all aspects of classroom instruction to maximize inclusion, learning, and achievement.
- 2. Assists and guides students to reinforce reading, language arts, mathematics, and other skills.
- 3. Independently supervise a small group of children (up to 10) and create engaging aftercare activities without support staff present from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
- 4. Assists teacher leaders in the administration and correction of classroom exercises, tests and assessments.
- 5. Assists in classroom preparations and strategies for reinforcing instructional materials and skills according to individual student needs.
- 6. Assists with record-keeping procedures to document student learning and performance.
- 7. Assists with classroom behavioral management to minimize disruptions, ensure a safe and orderly classroom, and ensure students are on task.
- 8. Assists all students in non-instructional areas, such as supervising the student lunch programs,, recess duty, walking field trips and 1:1 breaks as needed.
- 9. Prepares educational materials as needed.
- 10. Assist students with activities of daily living for the purpose of maximizing their ability to participate in school or learning activities
- 11. Follows all applicable safety rules, procedures and regulations governing the proper manner of assistance for all students, including those with disabilities or other special needs.
- 12. Ability to maintain confidentiality of information regarding students, employees and others.
- 13. Assist with light cleaning.
- 14. Ability to learn quickly and keep up in a fast paced environment.
- 15. Must have the ability to stay emotionally grounded, and continue to support and care for each child with empathy, understanding, and respect.
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 Elementary children and a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Montessori experience is preferred for candidates, and/or a college degree in Elementary 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. Must have the ability to stay emotionally grounded, and continue to support and care for each child with empathy, understanding, and respect.
Communication Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with the Teacher Leader, parents, and other staff members. Candidates must be open to feedback and maintain a positive attitude in the environment. 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. Ability to learn quickly and keep up in a fast paced environment.
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
- Native-like fluency in English, both spoken and written.
- Previous experience working with Elementary children.
Preferred:
- Previous experience as a Montessori/Elementary assistant.
- Previous experience as a paraprofessional.
- 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, 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. Must be able and willing to walk a minimum of one mile both ways for weekly walking excursions.
Physical Requirements:
Candidates must be able to sit, stand, bend, reach, occasionally climb on stools, navigate stairs,lift up to 20 lbs, and walk up to 3 miles.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
