Classroom Assistant

Montessori assistants are more than an extra adult in the room, or the people who clean the classrooms. They are an inspiration, guiding children through modeling and examples. They are an extra pair of hands, a watchful eye, and a comforting smile. Montessori assistants possess a positive, adaptable disposition, a friendly personality, and an understanding of the importance of contributing to the lives of children. The assistant plays an invaluable role in ensuring the overall success of a Montessori classroom. Many of our assistants go on to become certified as a Montessori teacher and continue to work at DMA for years to come. We like to "grow our own!"

What’s the role of Montessori assistants in the classroom?

In the primary environment, the Montessori assistant plays an active role with the children. As the lead teacher presents lessons to individual children, the assistant is responsible for maintaining peace and order in the classroom as well as protecting the lesson from interruption. Knowledge and understanding of the Montessori philosophy and methodology are vital, along with a calm, respectful approach.

In an elementary environment, the Montessori assistant is an assistant to the teacher. They may supervise cooking and Going-Outs, but do not give lessons. Assistants even defer disagreements or curriculum questions to the lead teacher. They protect lessons by redirecting the children, cleaning the classroom and materials, making materials, supervising playtime, and acting as an extra set of eyes in the class.

General Responsibilities:

• The assistant is responsible to the lead teacher and will assist in establishing and maintaining a harmonious classroom.
• Will help in establishing and maintaining Montessori classroom culture, paying particular attention to the needs of students.
• Carefully observe and keep records on each student’s individual progression through the classroom always being available to offer gentle guidance.
• Keep teachers informed about observations of children and your own needs. This is essential!.
• Participate in staff meetings if scheduling allows.

Responsibilities to the Lead Teacher:

• To assist the lead teacher with the children in their learning and understanding of the Montessori materials.
• To be informed and carry out duties as assigned by the lead teacher
• To be familiar with the Parent’s Handbook.
• To inform the lead teacher of any classroom difficulties, including discipline, health, equipment needs, repair and maintenance.
• To meet with the lead teacher to discuss goals for the class and individual students.

Responsibilities to the Children and Parents:

• Keep information confidential.
• Be professional and positive in all dealings with children and parents.
• Share all information from parents with the lead teacher.
• Allow the children to be as independent as possible and try not to be an obstacle in their growth.

Responsibilities to the Classroom:

• Clean-up of the classroom. Ensuring that it is always tidy.

Hours:

This position is year-round. Hours may vary depending on need. Most assistants work in the Childcare Program as well as in the classroom. Childcare hours are from 7:00 - 5:30 pm, so scheduling will be within those working hours. Most assistants work 8 hour days which include a half hour lunch break.

Requirements:

Assistant teachers must meet the following basic requirements:

• A clear record through fingerprinting
• Have the physical capacity to work with children PreK3 through 6th Grade.
• Attend Monthly Classroom Assistant Meetings

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18