Montessori Preschool Assistant Teacher needed

The Learning Tree Assistant Teachers are responsible for providing a warm and nurturing environment and report directly to the Lead Montessori Teachers in each of our classrooms. Learning Tree is a progressive, established Montessori school that offers year-round care to children 2 ½ to 6 years of age. We are a truly child-centered program, with an amazing staff of seasoned educators and a deep commitment to the practice of outstanding early childhood education located in a charming house in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle.

At The Learning Tree we focus on the emotional and social development of children and provide an academically rich and inviting space for them to freely explore, and we have a large play yard and two outdoor classrooms. We believe that the ability to be in healthy relationship with others is critical when it comes to success in the world and personal satisfaction in life. At The Learning Tree children are guided toward developing their individuality while learning how to be in community with others with compassion.

Responsibilities:

Supervise the children in the classroom, with direct guidance and mentorship from the Lead Teacher

Encourage the children in their activities in the classroom

Work with the lead teachers in planning and implementing the curriculum and offer suggestions / information about the children. See that program goals are supported.

Carry out appropriate and positive discipline as established by the lead teachers.

Maintain a room arrangement that is safe, inviting, clean and stimulating.

Be sensitive and responsive to parents, helping them feel comfortable at the school.

Attend the regularly scheduled staff meetings/trainings.

Attend the parent meetings as requested.

Assist in record keeping for the classroom.

Assist in playground, lunch, and nap supervision as needed, guiding children in skill and social development.

Prepare group projects, circle activities, and classroom materials as assigned.

Perform necessary classroom maintenance and janitorial tasks.

Relay parent messages to Lead Teachers or Directors.

Work with staff to create a harmonious, well- functioning work team through communication and problem solving.

Perform classroom cleaning and leave classroom ready for next shift or use.

Attend conferences, workshops or relevant classes – 10 hours per year

Accept supervision from the Lead Teacher.

Model a positive attitude.

Be punctual and reliable in attendance.

Qualifications

Likes to work with children

Some secondary education in early childhood or related fields preferred

Ability to form positive, warm and open relationships with children and adults.

Maturity, reliability, patience, and sensitivity

Ability to learn and use appropriate and positive discipline

Willingness to obtain First Aid, CPR, blood borne disease training, and a negative TB test. Trainings are paid for by The Learning Tree.

Demonstrate strong initiative and enthusiasm.

Demonstrate flexibility and ability to work under pressure.

Ability to accept suggestions and direction from Lead Teachers and Directors.

Compensation

$21-$23/hour starting wage with annual wage increases based on Seattle CPI

12 Sick and Safe Pay days per year

Consistent schedule Monday through Friday – 8:15am-4:00pm

4 weeks Paid Time Off – During School Breaks in April, August and December

Medical and Dental Insurance – Learning Tree pays 80% of premium

12 Weeks Paid Family Leave consistent with Washington State Paid Family & Medical Leave

Subsidized OCRA transit pass

Matched retirement plan after 1 year of employment

Help with education costs toward becoming a certified Montessori teacher

Creativity, positive energy, problem solving initiative and well-developed people skills are a must. So is the ability to be both kind and firm and have a strong desire to work in an environment that embraces diversity.

Hours: We are open 8:00am to 5:00pm M-F. The shift is from 8:15am-4:00pm.

At The Learning Tree we mindfully practice an anti-bias, anti-racist curriculum. We work consciously against biases of all kinds, such as gender, ethnic, religious, people color, etc. We welcome families of all backgrounds and embrace the unique aspects that they bring. The Learning Tree is not just a wonderful place for children, but an equally nurturing place for parents/caregivers and staff. We've been around for 43 years and strive to embrace families from all walks of life and families of all structures. Our mindful and spirited environment reflects this.

We don't discriminate by race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identification, political ideology, ancestry, age, marital and parental status, disability or retaliation in either admission or hiring policies. We extend a warm invitation to all, and we hope you'll consider coming to work with us.

Please email us with questions, or to learn more about the position. You may also call: 206-324-4788.