Position Purpose

This full-time position requires the teaching assistant to work directly with a teacher to support instruction and meet the essential needs of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students in a self-contained classroom that values project-based learning, collaboration, and differentiated instruction. The ideal candidate will be a creative, confident, organized, independent individual who is comfortable working with very young children and a team of teachers to support curriculum instruction. This position requires flexibility due to the ever-changing daily needs of young children in a school environment. Additionally, the candidate should be comfortable with the routine use of technology and be able to support the use of interactive displays and iPads within the daily curriculum.

Key Accountabilities

• Assist in guiding the development of age-appropriate skills across all curricular areas.
• Contribute to a culturally competent classroom by helping to establish and maintain a respectful and conscientious environment.
• Understand and meet the developmental and academic needs of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students of varying academic, social, and emotional abilities.
• Attend and contribute to regular grade‐level, divisional, and all-employee meetings.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned, such as lunch, recess, playground, and carpool duty.

Opportunities and Challenges

The Primary School teaching assistant plays a pivotal role in the life of a St. John’s Primary School student. The teaching assistant is a team member who helps students develop the habits, skills, and attitudes they will continue to hone throughout Lower School. The teaching assistant must:

• Model the St. John’s Code of respect, responsibility, honesty, and care.
• Demonstrate strong listening and verbal communication skills.
• Embrace the School’s Episcopal identity, ethos, and commitment to respecting the dignity of each individual.

Growth Mindset

• Collaborate with colleagues on the delivery of curriculum and practice of instructional strategies.
• Pursue professional growth, as well as growth in relevant technology skills.
• Demonstrate commitment to personal and professional growth. Able to meaningfully receive, reflect on, and apply feedback to one’s professional growth.

Qualifications

• An associate degree is required; a bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Coursework in child development or elementary education or experience working with young children in an educational setting.
• Ability to support the delivery of lessons in hybrid/blended and online learning environments.
• Must meet minimum technology proficiency standards, including the ability to use the Microsoft 365 suite.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift approximately 30 lbs.
• Ability to work for extended periods, including weeknights and weekends when required.
• Ability to work with children and adults in indoor and outdoor settings requiring extensive physical movement.
• Ability to work in on-campus, home, and field trip settings.