Montessori Assistant Teacher

RESPONSIBILITIES

*NOTE: The combination of responsibilities may vary based on the needs of the school site, students, and prior experiences of the Montessori Assistant Teacher. Some Montessori ATs will provide support across an entire school rather than be assigned to a single classroom.

Instructional

Support the lead teacher in preparing and delivering instructional activities that facilitate active Montessori learning experiences
Assist in presenting individual and small-group Montessori lessons, adapting activities to meet each child’s developmental stage and interests
Observe each child daily to assess skills, interests, and needs and use this information to facilitate learning and growth
Encourage the development of early literacy, math, and problem-solving skills through hands-on, purposeful work that supports kindergarten readiness
Prepare and maintain a well-organized, safe, and attractive classroom environment conducive to the optimal growth and development of children
Organize materials and clean the workspace to facilitate the learning process for each child
Support children’s increasing independence with daily living skills (i.e., washing hands, using the bathroom, eating meals and snacks, cleaning up, etc.)
Assist teachers in maintaining records on each child’s progress and development
Student Support

Develop a positive relationship with each child and promote the development of self-esteem and self-discipline
Provide support for children with diverse learning needs, including occasional or short-term support in small group settings when helpful for classroom participation, emotional regulation, or routines
Partner with lead teachers to implement student support and/or behavior plans as needed
Operational

Assist teachers with the full implementation of Bezos Academy’s performance standards, policies, and procedures
Support Bezos Academy classrooms by following regulations and guidelines in the day-to-day operation of the classroom (i.e., cleaning materials, meal prep, nap time transitions, etc.)
Prepare and maintain a well-organized, safe, and attractive classroom environment conducive to the optimal growth and development of children
Organize materials and clean the workspace to facilitate the learning process for each child
Support children’s increasing independence with daily living skills (i.e., washing hands, using the bathroom, eating meals and snacks, cleaning up, etc.)
Maintain eligibility and professional growth by obtaining a MACTE-accredited Primary Montessori teacher credential within two years (if not already credentialed)
As needed, independently supervise children throughout the day in classrooms and a variety of other situations, including but not limited to arrival/departure, transitions, outside time, rest/nap time, and (if offered) extended hours

Other

Participate in team meetings, center activities, and staff development
Assist lead teachers in conducting staff/family conferences
Establish a positive relationship with each child’s family and share information about the child’s day at the preschool
Assume postures at low levels (e.g. kneeling, stooping, bending, and sitting on the floor) as needed to communicate effectively with children

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Meet one of the following criteria:
Four years of professional experience as an aide, assistant, or lead teacher of children from infancy through third grade
Two years of professional experience as an aide, assistant, or lead teacher of children from infancy through third grade AND an associate’s degree in a relevant field (i.e., child development, early childhood education etc.)
Bachelor’s degree
Primary Montessori teaching credential from a MACTE-accredited institution or on track to obtain one within two years of hire
If you do not hold a Primary Montessori teaching credential from a MACTE-accredited institution, you will be eligible to complete the Bezos Academy Montessori Primary teacher coursework, provided at no cost
Ability to pass background checks, tuberculosis screenings, and trainings required by the state of Florida required to supervise children independently
Ability to independently supervise, communicate effectively with, and care for young children safely, including ability to lift a minimum of 40 lbs
Access to reliable transportation to and from work and ability to consistently attend work as scheduled to ensure proper staff-to-child classroom ratios and support smooth school operations