What are the responsibilities and job description for the Montessori Assistant (Children’s House) – Heartwood Montessori position at Heartwood Montessori School?
Montessori Assistant (Children’s House) – Heartwood Montessori
About Heartwood Montessori
Heartwood Montessori is a nonprofit school offering authentic Montessori education to children ages 16 months through kindergarten. We provide half-day and full-day programs, along with extended care and year-round summer programming. At Heartwood, we create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child embarks on their own journey of self-discovery, guided by Montessori principles to become engaged, joyful, and empathetic community members.
Position Summary
Heartwood Montessori is seeking an Hourly Montessori Assistant to support the Lead Guide in our Children’s House (ages 3–6) program. This position is perfect for newly trained Montessori teachers or those with Montessori experience who are looking to grow within a collaborative, supportive, and peaceful classroom environment.
As a Montessori Assistant, you will work closely with the Lead Guide to create and maintain a developmentally appropriate Montessori environment that fosters independence, curiosity, and a love for learning. This role is ideal for someone passionate about working with young children and eager to contribute to their growth and development in alignment with Montessori principles.
Heartwood’s Shared Montessori Values
- Prepared Environment & Prepared Adults – Thoughtfully arranged spaces and intentional adult guidance support each child’s development.
- Respect for the Child – We honor each child’s individuality, independence, and self-discovery through purposeful work.
- Observation & Non-Judgment – Careful, unbiased observation allows us to meet each child where they are.
- Freedom with Responsibility – We empower children with freedom of choice, balanced by clear and consistent expectations.
- Collaboration & Community – Learning happens through connection, reciprocity, and lifelong growth.
- Peace Education – Our curriculum fosters compassion, social harmony, and a deep connection to nature.
Qualifications
- AMI /AMS Montessori assistant training (preferred).
- Prior experience in early childhood education, particularly in a Montessori setting (preferred).
- Qualify as an Assistant or Lead is ideal under (background check required)
- Have or be willing to obtain CPR & First Aid certification within 60 days (school reimburses training costs)
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a willingness to learn
- Newly trained Montessori teachers are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
- Ability to foster positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
- A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Essential Skills
- Understanding of child development and Montessori principles.
- Ability to support the Lead Guide in managing the classroom environment.
- Patience, flexibility, and a positive attitude.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail.
Responsibilities
Classroom Support:
- Assist the Lead Guide in preparing and maintaining a high-quality Montessori learning environment.
- Support individual and group activities, ensuring children are engaged and learning.
- Foster independence in children by helping them develop self-care and practical life skills.
- Observe children and provide feedback to the Lead Guide regarding individual progress.
- Help ensure a safe, respectful, and peaceful classroom atmosphere.
Family & Community Engagement:
- Maintain open and positive communication with families
Collaboration & Professional Growth:
- Collaborate with the Lead Guide, other classroom assistants, and school administration.
- Participate in professional development and training opportunities, including Montessori workshops.
- Attend regular staff meetings and positively contribute to Heartwood’s school culture.
Administrative Duties:
- Maintain accurate records and assist in compliance with licensing and school policies.
- Help with general classroom upkeep, including cleaning, organizing materials, and setting up activities.
- Assist with the implementation of classroom routines and procedures.
Compensation and Benefits
This is an hourly position, with competitive compensation based on experience. Heartwood Montessori School offers additional benefits to support our team members, including:
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Tuition discount for employees’ children
- Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Employer-paid life insurance
- Employer contribution to a 401(k) retirement plan
Why Join Heartwood Montessori?
- A Mission-Driven Community – Be part of a nonprofit school committed to Montessori education and child-centered learning.
- Collaboration & Support – Work in a team-oriented environment with mentorship and opportunities for professional growth.
- Professional Development – Heartwood invests in ongoing staff training, including Montessori workshops and leadership development.
- Inclusive & Nurturing Environment – Heartwood fosters a place where children are seen, valued, and empowered in their learning journey.
To Apply:
Please submit the following:
- Letter of interest
- Resume
- Two professional references
Send application materials to: info@heartwoodmontessori.org
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.00 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Salary : $17 - $23
